ZIMRI — The King Who Chose the Wrong Way

Bible Setting: 1 Kings 16:8–20

Zimri lived during a time when many kings of Israel were turning away from God. Instead of choosing leaders who followed the Lord, the people often chose men who cared more about power than righteousness. Zimri was one of them. He was a commander in the army, but he wanted the throne for himself—no matter the cost.

One day, Zimri turned against King Elah and took the throne by force. He became king, but only for seven days—the shortest reign of any king in Israel. Instead of leading people toward God, Zimri continued the same sins and wrongdoing that other kings had done before him. He chose pride, selfishness, and rebellion, and it quickly led to disaster.

When the people realized what Zimri had done, they made Omri king instead. A battle started, and Zimri knew his time was over. Instead of turning to God or asking for help, he shut himself inside the king’s palace and destroyed it with himself inside. His life became a sad reminder of what happens when someone chooses pride over wisdom.

Zimri teaches kids that building your life on selfishness never works. Power gained the wrong way never leads to real success. God wants leaders who are humble, honest, and willing to do what is right—even when it’s hard.

In The Good Fight card game, Zimri represents the dangers of pride and quick, unwise choices. When kids face his card, they learn that real strength comes from following God’s ways, not from chasing power.

Zimri Bible Story - Free Coloring Page!