The “Footprints in the Sand” (or just “Footprints”) poem is one of the most famous allegorical Christian stories of the last century. While the original authorship and influences of the poem are disputed, its popularity is unrivaled. It has been mentioned by everyone from Ronald Reagan to Kanye West to Ann Landers.
To help you read and reflect on this story with kids, I have included a summary and some discussion questions you can use to share with them.
Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene, I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints; other times there was only one set of footprints.
During the low periods of my life I could see only one set of footprints. So I said, “You promised me, Lord, that you would walk with me always. Why, when I have needed you most, have you not been there for me?”
The Lord replied, “The times when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child, is when I carried you.”
Footprints in the Sand Bible Verse
“In the wilderness, where you saw how the Lord your God carried you, just as one carries a child, all the way that you have traveled until you reached this place.”
—Deuteronomy 1:31
Footprints in the Sand Poem Summary
A person walks along the beach with God and sees many scenes of life. There were footprints in the sand for each scene. Some scenes had two sets of footprints, but the low parts of life had only one set of footprints. When asked about the feeling of being alone during hardships, God replied “the times when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child, is when I carried you.”
Footprints in the Sand Story Meaning
God is always with us but especially in the times of our greatest need.
We often feel alone and hopeless during the hardest times of life. Those memories can be painful. It might feel as though God has abandoned us during those dark times. The truth is, though, God is always with us. As we look back upon the hardest times in our lives, we can take comfort that the Lord carried us like a child through those challenges to arrive where we are today.
Footprints in the Sand Discussion Questions
- What are some examples of hard times people experience in life?
- What have been your most challenging moments in life?
- How do you think God carries us through the hard times of life?
- Are you going through anything difficult right now? How would it feel for you to ask God to carry you through? Explain.
- Imagine walking along the beach with the Lord. What other questions would you ask about your life and the footprints of your life’s memories?
Download and Print this Story and Questions
Download a PDF of this story along with the questions for reflection or discussion.
