November 2025 - In The Zone

Nehemiah knew how to get things done. He was a faithful, bold, and focused leader who accomplished a great task in a short time. We’ll look at how Nehemiah dealt with the obstacles that blocked his mission of rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall, and how Nehemiah represents an example that would be completely fulfilled in Jesus. 

ELEMENTARY LESSONS:

MEMORY VERSE:  

"For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13 

LESSON 1: First Things First

When Nehemiah found out that Jerusalem’s wall had been destroyed, he was in a position to help. He would need the king’s blessing, a bunch of supplies, and a lot of help. He had a big job to do. But before he started to act, he stopped to pray.
Jesus prayed before facing big challenges; especially the cross. 

Scripture: Nehemiah 1, Matthew 26:37

LESSON 2: A Bold Request

After seeking help from God, Nehemiah boldly sought the help of the king. He was confident to ask for permission to leave his job as the king’s cupbearer, for massive amounts of supplies, and for letters of protection. With God’s blessing, Nehemiah was able to speak boldly, and to ask boldly. Jesus spoke with boldness, because he knew that God was with him. 

Scripture: Nehemiah 2, Matthew 1:28-29, Acts 1:8

LESSON 3: Gossip Guys

When other politicians found out about what Nehemiah was up to, they began to discourage him. Later, they lied about him, spread rumors about him, and threatened him with acts of aggression. But Nehemiah didn’t allow their words and actions to deter him. Instead, he called out their lies, and carried on with his work. Jesus is the perfect example of faithfulness in the face of criticism. God is faithful to us, no matter what people may say about us.

Scripture: Nehemiah 2, 6, Matthew 27:27-31, 54

LESSON 4: Interrupting the Work

Nehemiah was extremely busy. But he was never too busy to stop and do the right thing. In the middle of a huge building project that was threatened by opposition, some people complained to Nehemiah that they were being treated unfairly. We might have expected Nehemiah to say, “Let’s get this wall built and then deal with the other stuff later.” But Nehemiah stopped what he was doing, and took the time to make things right. 

Scripture: Nehemiah 5, Mark 5:22-30

LESSON 5: Time to Celebrate

After the rebuilding of the wall was finished, it was time to celebrate. Those living in Jerusalem recognized what God had done for them by worshiping Him, and by celebrating a festival together. They also rediscovered something that was lost. When celebrate Jesus each week by coming together, worshiping God, enjoying His blessings, and by rediscovering what has been lost. 

Scripture: Nehemiah 8

PRESCHOOL LESSONS:

Memory Verse: “For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you. Do not fear; I will help you.” Isaiah 41:13
Bible Story: Nehemiah Rebuilds the Wall / Nehemiah 1:1-11, 2:1-9b, 19-20, 5:1-11a, 6:1-3, 15-16, 8:1-6, 10, 14-17
Included Each Week: A craft, wiggle-tamer, table time activity, discussion questions, take-home page, and more.

LESSON 1:

Creative Teaching Method: Storytelling with Pictures

This Week’s Focus: God wants us to pray to him about the things we need.

LESSON  2:

Creative Teaching Method: Storytelling with Props

This Week’s Focus: We can trust God to help us.

LESSON 3:

Creative Teaching Method: Storytelling with Interactive Roleplay

This Week’s Focus: What God says is more important than what people say. 

LESSON 4:

Creative Teaching Method: Storytelling with Questions Only

This Week’s Focus: We should always stop to do what is right.

LESSON 5:

Creative Teaching Method: Storytelling with a Tussled Tale

This Week’s Focus: Church is where we celebrate Jesus.