IDENTITY

Open Discussion: "Finding Yourself in God's Story" Setup: Youth sit in a circle. One person picks a flash card with a Bible character. Everyone answers the related question. Goal: Help youth connect their experiences with those of biblical figures, and explore their identity through God’s Word.

Overcoming Obstacles

🟪 Question:
“Can you describe a time in your life—whether at school or personally—when you had to overcome a big challenge? How did you get through it? What kind of strength or support did you need?”

📖 Scriptures:

• 1 Samuel 17:34–37 (David fighting the lion and bear)

• 1 Samuel 17:45–50 (David defeating Goliath)

Summary: David, a young shepherd, recalls how he fought off a lion and a bear to protect his sheep. Later, he boldly faces and defeats Goliath with faith in God, using only a sling and a stone.

Dealing with Temptation & Peer Pressure

🟪 Question:
“Have you ever been pressured by friends to do something you didn’t feel was right? How did you respond, and what do you wish you had done differently?”

📖 Scripture:

• Judges 16:4–21 (Samson and Delilah)

Summary: Samson falls in love with Delilah, who pressures him into revealing the secret of his strength—his hair. After telling her, she betrays him, leading to his capture by the Philistines.

Trusting God in Faith

🟪 Question:
“Was there a time when you had to trust in something even when it didn’t make sense? How did it feel to believe without seeing?”

📖 Scripture:

• Genesis 17:15–19; 21:1–7 (Abraham believing for Isaac)

• Romans 4:20–21 (Abraham’s faith praised)

Summary: God promises Abraham and Sarah a son, despite their old age. Abraham believes God, and Isaac is born. Paul later praises Abraham’s unwavering faith, calling him fully convinced of God’s power.

Speaking Up with Courage

🟪 Question:
“Can you think of a time when you had to speak up for what was right, even though it felt scary or unpopular? If not, can you share a moment when you wish you had spoken up?”

📖 Scripture:

• Esther 4:13–16 (Esther deciding to go before the king)

Summary: Esther is urged by her cousin Mordecai to risk her life and speak to the king to save her people. She bravely agrees, saying, “If I perish, I perish,” choosing courage over fear.

Showing Kindness

🟪 Question:
“Have you had an opportunity to show kindness to someone who didn’t expect it or couldn’t give anything in return? How did it make you feel?”

📖 Scripture:

• Luke 10:25–37 (The Good Samaritan)

Summary: Jesus tells a parable about a man beaten by robbers. A Samaritan, unlike the others who passed by, stops to help and care for the man. Jesus uses this story to define true neighborly love.

 Using Your Gifts

🟪 Question:
“What is one gift or talent you believe God has given you? How have you used it recently, or how would you like to use it in the future?”

📖 Scripture:

• Matthew 25:14–30 (The Parable of the Talents)

Summary: Jesus tells a story of a master who gives his servants different amounts of money (“talents”) to manage. Two invest and grow theirs, while one hides his out of fear. The parable teaches us to use our gifts faithfully and not let fear hold us back.