When you stop to think about the Bible, it can make your head spin. The books in the Bible were written over a 1,500-year period by numerous writers who lived over three different continents. If that weren’t enough, it was written in three different languages.

The Bible is one of the only books that affects you on a daily basis. People use it when debating abortion rights, human cloning, prayers in schools, or most any other front-page news.

It’s difficult to understand the times we live in without some knowledge of the Bible. The Bible tells us traditions of three major religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The more we understand the Bible the more we understand the differences and similarities between the major religions. It also helps us understand the possibility of achieving peace.

The Bible also helps us appreciate and understand many pieces of art. Biblical themes and imagery fill our world through paintings by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Literary masterpieces by Shakespeare and Milton were also inspired from the Bible.

There are many translations of the Bible. Finding the one that speaks to you is important. Ask yourself, “What is most important?” when reading the Bible. Is it the literary genius? Maybe research? Are you wanting to read for entertainment value? Or maybe all of these reasons fits your needs. Different translations accomplish different things. Knowing what you want from your Bible reading will determine the translation that will suit you best.

* Think on this for now and figure out what you want from your reading. Then in the coming days and weeks, I will compare different translations to help you with your quest.

God calls us to love Him with everything we have in us and to love our neighbors more than we love ourselves. He calls us to put others before ourselves but after Him.

Luke 10:27 ~ “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.”

Our youth today, seems to think love one another is more boyfriend and girlfriend. They throw the word love around without any meaning. Unfortunately, today’s society and media portrays love as something fleeting, temporary, in the moment. Lasting love is a thing of the past so love freely and without reservation.

John 13:34-35 ~ “A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, all men will know you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

God calls us to act out of love for one another not out of anger. When things are out of control in your life and people are driving you crazy, respond with love.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ~ Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.

Although God calls us to love one another, He is speaking of brotherly love. He wants us to love sincerely.

Romans 12:9-10 ~ Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.

God tells us that love is the greatest emotion there is in this world. We should accompany love with faith and hope but keep love at the top.

1 Corinthians 13:13 ~ And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

God promises to bless our love if we are faithful, monogamous, and selfless in our love.

1 Thessalonians 3:12 ~ May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.

Part of loving others is helping them when they have a need. If we can clothe someone in need, we should. If we can feed someone who is hungry then we are sharing God’s love. Words are easy but actions mean so much more.

1 John 3:17-18 ~ If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.

MORE SCRIPTURE:

1 John 4:15-21 ~ If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.  God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, “I love God,” yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.

Where the loser saw barriers, the winner saw hurdles.  ~Robert Brault~

The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it.
~C.C. Scott~

Too many people miss the silver lining because they’re expecting gold.  ~Maurice Setter~

The block of granite which was an obstacle in the pathway of the weak, became a stepping-stone in the pathway of the strong.  ~Thomas Carlyle~

If you have the will to win, you have achieved half your success; if you don’t, you have achieved half your failure.  ~David Ambrose~

Impossible is a word only to be found in the dictionary of fools.  ~Napoleon~

Excellence is not a skill.  It is an attitude.  ~Ralph Marston~

There are two things to aim at in life:  first, to get what you want; and after that, to enjoy it.  Only the wisest of mankind achieve the second.
~Logan Pearsall Smith~

Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.  ~Abraham Lincoln~

Happiness is a form of courage.  ~Holbrook Jackson~

The only way to avoid being miserable is not to have enough leisure to wonder whether you are happy or not.  ~George Bernard Shaw~

Real elation is when you feel you could touch a star without standing on tiptoe.  ~Doug Larson~

The search for happiness is one of the chief sources of unhappiness.
~Eric Hoffer~

Jumping for joy is good exercise.  ~Author Unknown~

You cannot always have happiness, but you can always give happiness.  ~Author Unknown~

The greatest happiness you can have is knowing that you do not necessarily require happiness.  ~William Saroyan~

Every thought is a seed.
If you plant crab apples,
don’t count on harvesting Golden Delicious.
~Bill Meyer~

Life is great.
Don’t let circumstances and
society fool you into believing it’s not.
~Adabella Radici~

Say you are well, or all is well with you,
And God shall hear your words and make them true.
~Ella Wheeler Wilcox~

The greatest discovery of my generation
is that a human being can alter his life
by altering his attitudes.
~William James~

Could we change our attitude,
we should not only see life differently,
but life itself would come to be different.
~Katherine Mansfield~

Look at everything as though
you were seeing it either for
the first or last time.
~Betty Smith~

Optimist: someone who isn’t sure
whether life is a tragedy or a comedy
but is tickled silly just to be in the play.
~Robert Brault~

Very often a change of self is needed
more than a change of scene.
~Arthur Christopher Benson~

For every day that there is sunshine,
there will be days of rain,
it’s how we dance within them both
that shows our love and pain.
~Joey Tolbert~

Things turn out best for the people
who make the best out of the way things turn out.
~Art Linkletter~

People seem not to see that their opinion of the world
is also a confession of character.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

I have found that if you love life,
life will love you back.
~Arthur Rubinstein~

Expect nothing.  Live frugally on surprise.
~Alice Walker~

You must start with a positive attitude or you will surely end without one.  ~Carrie Latet

In honor of “Happiness”, I would like to share some quotes about happiness for you to think about.

Happiness is an attitude.
We either make ourselves miserable,
or happy and strong.
The amount of work is the same.
~Francesca Reigler~

Misery is a communicable disease.
~Martha Graham~

A happy person is not a person
in a certain set of circumstances,
but rather a person with
a certain set of attitudes.
~Hugh Downs~

Some people are always grumbling
because roses have thorns;
I am thankful that thorns have roses.
~Alphonse Karr~

I never really look for anything.
What God throws my way comes.
I wake up in the morning and
whichever way God turns my feet, I go.
~Pearl Bailey~

Become a possibilitarian.
No matter how dark things seem to be
or actually are,
raise your sights and see possibilities -
always see them, for they’re always there.
~Norman Vincent Peale~

It isn’t our position but our disposition
which makes us happy.
~Author Unknown~

Turn your face to the sun
and the shadows fall behind you.
~Maori Proverb~

Some days there won’t be a song
in your heart.  Sing anyway.
~Emory Austin~

Unhappiness is best defined as
the difference between our talents
and our expectations.
~Edward de Bono~

The Constitution only guarantees
the American people the right
to pursue happiness.
You have to catch it yourself.
~Benjamin Franklin~

Happiness is never stopping
to think if you are.
~Palmer Sondreal~

The best way to cheer yourself up
is to try to cheer somebody else up.
~Mark Twain~

If only we’d stop trying to be happy
we could have a pretty good time.
~Edith Wharton~

Nobody really cares if you’re miserable,
so you might as well be happy.
~Cynthia Nelms~

Those who can laugh without cause
have either found the true meaning
of happiness or have gone stark raving mad.
~Norm Papernick~

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance;
the wise grows it under his feet.
~James Openheim~

Happiness often sneaks in through a door
you didn’t know you left open.
~John Barrymore~

People take different roads seeking
fulfillment and happiness.
Just because they’re not on your road
doesn’t mean they’ve gotten lost.
~H. Jackson Browne~

Three grand essentials to happiness
in this life are something to do,
something to love,
and something to hope for.
~Joseph Addison~

There can be no happiness
if the things we believe in are
different from the things we do.
~Freya Stark~

Enjoy the little things,
for one day you may look back
and realize they were the big things.
~Robert Brault~

In order to have great happiness
you have to have great pain and unhappiness
- otherwise how would you know when you’re happy?
~Leslie Caron~

On the whole, the happiest people
seem to be those who have no particular
cause for being happy except that they are so.
~William R. Inge~

To be happy,
we must not be too concerned with others.
~Albert Camus, The Fall, 1956~

Happiness is when what you think,
what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
~Mahatma Gandhi~

But what is happiness
except the simple harmony
between a man and the life he leads?
~Albert Camus~

Happiness is not being pained in body
or troubled in mind.
~Thomas Jefferson~

We act as though comfort and luxury
were the chief requirements in life,
when all we need to make us really happy
is something to be enthusiastic about.
~Charles Kingsley~

Some pursue happiness, others create it.
~Author Unknown~

Happiness is a conscious choice,
not an automatic response.
~Mildred Barthel~

Plenty of people miss their share of happiness,
not because they never found it,
but because they didn’t stop to enjoy it.
~William Feather~

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy,
they are the charming gardeners
who make our souls blossom.
~Marcel Proust~

For every minute you are angry,
you lose sixty seconds of happiness.
~Author Unknown~

The truth is the Bible is several books written by several people.The writers were a diverse bunch that included shepherds, kings, priests, fishermen, farmers, poets, prophets and scribes to name a few. Both upstanding moral authors and morally challenged authors contributed to the writing of the Bible (examples would be traitors, murderers, tax collectors, embezzlers and even adulterers.

They wrote about things they experienced personally as well as events that took place before they were born. The Bible includes history, legal texts, music, poetry, personal correspondence, philosophy and prophecies.

* The word “Bible” comes from the word “ton biblion” which means “the scroll” or “the book”. It derives from the ancient city of Byblos. This city was the main supplier of paper products and thus made the ancient city (now called Lebanon) synonymous with the word “book” or “scroll”.

God calls us to share the “Christmas Spirit” all year long.  So why does the “Christmas Spirit” fail so quickly after the presents are opened?

Did you ever wonder why we give presents to people to celebrate Jesus’ birthday? I mean, for my birthday, I get presents. For your birthday, you get presents. So why do we receive gifts on Jesus’ birthday?

Years ago, I started having a birthday party for Jesus with my youth group. We brought in a cake with “Happy Birthday Jesus” written on it and everyone brought a gift to give Jesus.

The gifts were the best part. Everyone brought a wrapped box in for the party. We took turns placing our boxes under the tree. As we placed them, we told what we had brought for Jesus. Some might bring their love, devotion, praise, time, etc. Others might bring their bad habits (cussing, smoking, bullying, etc.) or something they need to let go of (ex-boyfriend, bitterness, feeling inadequate, etc.).

When all of the gifts were under the tree, we would pray and ask God to bless our gifts. We would thank God for His gift and we would thank Jesus for willingly coming to earth and giving up His riches and comfort for us.

After our prayer, we would all share one thing we counted as a blessing in our life. Then we played Christmas music and ate cake. Everyone had fun and seemed to carry the “Christmas Spirit” with them longer into the New Year.

Romans 4:4-5 ~ Now when  man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation. However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.

Faith brings us peace. We rejoice in the glory of God who brings us hope.

Romans 5:1-2 ~ Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.

To understand faith, we need to hear messages filled with the Word of Christ. We need to fellowship with other Christians.

Romans 10:17 ~ Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.

We need to hold firmly onto our faith. Even when we we start to have doubts, we need to cling to our faith.

Romans 14:22-23 ~ So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. But the man who has doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.

As we have faith, we need to be on guard, stand firm in our faith, be courageous and love each other.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ~ Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.

If we believe without proof our faith is stronger. To believe in God when we can’t see God takes faith. The same is true of air, gravity and love. We can’t see any of them but we believe they are there.

2 Corinthians 5:7 ~ We live by faith, not by sight.

We need to shield ourselves in faith to battle evil. The victory goes to the faithful believers.

Ephesians 6:16 ~ In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the the flaming arrows of the evil one.

Believe that your heart’s desires are also God’s desire’s for you. When you are full of faith and believe without seeing, your desires become pure and we are able to see the path we are meant for.

Hebrews 11:1 ~ Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

We can only see God if we believe he exists. When we earnestly seek God, he will reward us.

Hebrews 11:6 ~ And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seeks him.

SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE:

Hebrew 11

1 Corinthians 13:11 ~ When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.

I’m sure you can find many adjectives to describe “youth” today. Have they changed over the years? Their hair-styles may change and their clothes may change but have they changed? What does the Bible say?

Ecclesiastes 11:9 ~ Be happy, young man, while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you to judgment.

Maybe you have heard some say today’s youth are disrespectful, irresponsible, rebellious and self-centered. These adjectives fit many of today’s youth but not all. Many young people follow the desires of their heart right into selfish and irresponsible choices. Once the sinful nature is nurtured a little, it’s easy for disrespect and rebellion to sneak in and take over. What’s the Bible say?

2 Timothy 2:22-24 ~ Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.

Leviticus 19:3 ~ Each of you must respect his mother and father, and you must observe my Sabbaths. I am the Lord your God.

Some say they are energetic, young, immature, naive and carefree. What does the Bible say?

Psalm 22:30-31 ~ Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord. They will proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn-for he has done it.

So does God want us to be mild mannered, meek and perfect all the time? I believe God knows we are flawed and he loves us anyway. I believe God knows that we are never going to be perfect. I believe God wants us to do our best and be our best everyday.

John 8:3-11 ~ The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

Although this post is not about adultery, this Scripture sums up how God wants us to treat each other.

As adults, we need to look beyond the “flaws” of the youth around us and love them anyway. How can we do less and expect God to continue loving our “flawed” self? By our example, we can teach them to do the same.

Does the Denomination really matter that much? Is it worth all of the lost souls for us to be “right” in our Denomination. If we all believe Jesus died on the cross for our sins and that He is the only way to God, then why do we let the small differences stand between us?

Ephesians 4:11-13 ~ It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

The Bible doesn’t say “Baptist will lead the way or Methodist have all the answers. There is no rating system for denominations. The Bible doesn’t separate denominations into categories or standing with God.

1 Corinthians 1:11-13 ~ My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas”; still another, “I follow Christ”. Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul?

God wants us to all live in Harmony with each other. He wants us to spread His message of love by demonstrating love towards each other. How can we be effective witnesses for God if we are fighting with each other over silly things like carpet colors or how we should express our praise? As long as we keep Christ as our focus, it doesn’t matter what denomination we call ourselves.

Romans 12:16 ~ Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

Psalm 133:1 ~ How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!

Let’s begin today. Who do you know that attends a church of a different denomination? Maybe they are Nazarene, Baptist, Catholic, Lutheran or Brethren? Can you be friends in Christ and stay focused on the thing you have in common; Jesus Christ? Can you put aside your differences and serve as One Body for Christ? It’s what we’ve all been called to do.

2 Timothy 2:20 ~ In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble.

We determine which we will be by what we do with the life God gave us. We can choose to be quiet about our faith, keeping a small part of the world with us. Or we can choose to cleanse ourselves from evil things and become a vessel God uses for special things.

2 Timothy 2:21 ~ If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master nd prepared to do any good work.

We don’t have to be clay pots; the choice is ours. Because so many of us lack commitment, we become content to stay clay pots. Because we can’t separate ourselves from worldly things (or we chose not to) we can’t follow the dreams God has for our lives. We get into a comfort zone that we are too lazy or scared to get out of.

We can all chose to be golden vessels just by turning away from evil ways and worldly desires. Just by turning our lives over to God (completely) we can change our clay pot existence into a golden vessel life.

It just takes a complete commitment to God. Get before God and study His word. Get your desires in line with God’s desires. Listen to the Holy Spirit’s call and let the Holy Spirit help you put the world behind you.

Life is full of choices. We don’t always like the choices but they are still our choices to make. Every choice has a consequence. We don’t always like the consequence but the choice was still ours to make.

So, are you going to settle for being a clay pot or are you aiming for a golden vessel?

MORE SCRIPTURE:

Genesis 19

Genesis 20

Mathew 11

1. Feeling nervous: worried or afraid, especially about something that is going to happen or might happen

2. Eager: wanting very much, or in a desperate or nervous way, to do or receive something.

Being worried about something uses energy God wants us to use elsewhere. He knows we naturally worry, it’s in our nature to fear the unknown but God wants us to trust Him so completely that we don’t stress and worry about the little things.

Philippians 4:6-7 ~ Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Why doesn’t God want us to worry?

Proverbs 12:25 ~ An anxious heart weighs a man’s heart down, but a kind word cheers him up.

God doesn’t want us to get depressed and worry causes depression. He tells us to cast our worries on Him. He warns us to be alert and watchful that we don’t fall prey to worry.

1 Peter 5:7-8 ~ Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Is there ever a good time to be anxious? I think it’s o.k. to be excited about somethings. It crosses a line when your anxiety becomes consuming. Being anxious (excited) about Jesus returning is great!  Being anxious (excited) about sharing God with everyone we know and even those we don’t know is great.

Isaiah 26:3-4 ~ You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.

So if you must be anxious, be anxious, excited, about Jesus and serving the Lord. When you feel the nervous anxiety coming on, replace it with the excited anxiety of serving God.

WHAT YOU NEED:
Bible For Each Teen (or one they can share)
A List Of Choices
Paper and Pencils (optional)

Most of you have heard of the “Would You Rather…” Discussion Starter. This is done just like that only you have choices from the Bible.

Ex. Would you rather be thrown in a Lions Den or tossed in a Fiery Furnace?

Before they answer, have them tell you something about their choice.

Ex. “There were a lot of starving lions wanting to eat you, so I’d rather take my chances with the fire.”

1. You can have them write their answer down on paper, numbering 1 to 10, and at the end collect the papers and read only their answers. Have the students guess who they think the paper belongs to based on the answers. My teens enjoyed this way unless they had a guy/girl there they liked. This way also keeps them from choosing out loud in front of everyone.

2. Another option is to have the number “1” and the number “2” written on pieces of construction paper. Put the “1” on one side of the room and the “2” on the other side of the room. Explain that the first option is “1” and the second option is “2”. When you call out the choice (Ex. Would you rather be thrown in a Lions Den or tossed in a Fiery Furnace?), they go to the number they would choose. Then randomly choose someone from each number to tell you something about their choice. This should be something actually about the choice and not why they chose it unless they go together (Ex. “There were a lot of starving lions wanting to eat you, so I’d rather take my chances with the fire.” – the fact is there were starving lions – it‘s a small fact but it‘s something).

3. Make it a relay. Divide into two or three even teams (if possible). Give the choice (Ex. Would you rather be thrown in a Lions Den or tossed in a Fiery Furnace?), then give your teens 5 minutes to write down as many facts as they can remember for the one they choose. They should work in a group so they can learn new facts about their choice. It’s o.k. if they only chose the lion’s den because they knew more about it.

* The important thing is to make it fun. You might be surprised at how much they know about stories in the Bible.

MORE EXAMPLES:

1. Would you rather be stuck on Noah’s Ark or swallowed by a whale?
2. Would you rather fight a giant or be killed by your brother?
3. Would you rather be Job or Samson?
4. Would you rather be Esther or Mary, mother of Jesus?
5. Would you rather be King David or King Solomon?

How do we as Christians define wisdom? Here are a few answers that may surprise you.

* Simply knowing the difference between right and wrong.

* Being able to quote facts about many different topics.

* Knowing that plaid and polka dots are never a good combination.

*Getting straight “A’s” (having a high GPA).

~ I believe that Christian wisdom is being able to see our weaknesses when we are faced with difficult situations and trusting that God will fill in the lacking we have with His unfailing strength.

* In other words, Knowing we are unable to do anything to the best of our ability without God.

~ However you word things, wisdom comes from knowing how God’s abilities are more than we can fathom and our only strength is in trusting and leaning on His strength and abilities.

~ Supporting Scripture ~

Psalm 51:6 ~ Surely you desire truth in the inner parts, you teach me wisdom in the inner place.

Psalm 71:17-18 ~ Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.

Psalm 90:12 ~ Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Psalm 111:10 ~ The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.

Proverbs 2:6 ~ For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

1 Corinthians 3:18-20 ~ Do not deceive yourselves. If any one of you thinks he is wise by the standards of this age, he should become a “fool” so that he may become wise. “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: He catches the wise in their craftiness and again the Lord knows the thoughts of the wise are futile.”

* James 3:13-18 *

What can we do to become WISE?

1 Kings 3:12 ~ “I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be.”

Proverbs 8:10-12 ~ Choose my instructions instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare to her. “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion.

James 1:5-6 ~ If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault and it will be given to him. But when he asls, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blows and tossed by the wind.

DISCUSSION:

1. How do you define “wisdom”?

2.Do you desire wisdom?

3. What are the five most important things God wants you to do this week?

4. Why does God tell us to listen to our elders?

5. Get your most prize possession (or picture it). How does this possession make you a better person? Has it changed you? How are you able to help others with this possession?

6. Why is God’s wisdom and instruction far more valuable than any worldly possession?

Exodus 4:11-12 ~ The Lord said to him, “who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”

Isaiah 44:2 ~ This is what the Lord says-he who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid, O Jacob, my servant, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen.

* Because God gave us our talents, He will help us carry through. When we use our talents to the glory of God, our talents are stronger. God’s message is stronger. We are able to do more for Him and the building of His Kingdom.

ASK YOURSELF:

1. Why is it so hard to talk to others about God?

2. How can you use your talents to help you be a witness for God?

Isaiah 6:8 ~ Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”

Exodus 28:3 ~ Tell all the skilled men to whom I have given wisdom in such  matters that they are to make garments for Aaron, for his consecration, so he may serve me as priest.

Exodus 31:2-5 ~ “See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and Knowledge in all kinds of crafts – to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and engage in all kinds of craftsmanship.”

* When God calls us to do something, He will give us the talents we need to do great things in His Name. We don’t have to trust in our own ability or strength.

ASK YOURSELF:

1. What are you really good at?

2. How can you use those talents to serve others?

Deuteronomy 8:18 ~ But remember the Lord, your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms His covenant, which He swore to your forefathers, as it is today.

1 Chronicles 22:15-16 ~ “You have many workmen: stonecutters, masons and carpenters as well as men skilled in every kind of work in gold and silver, bronze and iron-craftsmen beyond number. Now begin the work and the Lord be with you.”

* Wealth is something most people believe will make them happy. As Christians, we know that real wealth, comes from God’s blessings and not money or possessions.

ASK YOURSELF:

1. Where are you storing your treasures?

2. How can you use your talents to store more treasures in heaven (by bringing more people to knowing God)?

MORE SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE:

Romans 1:6 ~ And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.

Romans 11:29 ~ for God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable.

Romans 12:6-8 ~ We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; If it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.

1 Corinthians 12:1 ~ Now about spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be ignorant.

1 Corinthians 12:4-6 ~ There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11 ~ Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good…All these these are the work of one and the same Spirit and He gives them to each one, just as He determines.

1 Peter 4:10 ~ Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.

Why is it that so many people take advantage of their families and abuse their families? Is it because we are certain family will always be there for us? Does that make it right? How do we change this pattern?

The first thing we need to do is re-educate our youth about God’s plan for family.

In today’s society, it seems “normal” to back talk your parents and disrespect them. After all, we didn’t ask to be born so our parents should take what we dish out, right? T.V., movies and even books glorify the “abuse” of our parents. With the media making our parents look like idiots, our youth begin believing they are superior. Add that to the “I deserve it” mentality and how do we re-educate? The media is hard to compete with.

Our only ammunition is truth. Our faith in the Bible is a powerful weapon against any and all world views. Our strength is God’s Word. So what does the Bible say about family?

Ephesians 5:1-2 ~ Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Proverbs 11:29 ~ He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only the wind and the fool will be servant to the wise.

Colossians 3:12-17 ~ Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentelness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one anther with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

*How do we get teens to put these things into action? First we must get them to believe this is the right way to live and to take these scriptures to heart. Because teens have a mind of their own and they are constantly being fed the world view, it may not be easy to tell them, but we can show them. If we demonstrate the “Family Rules” to the teens that come into our group, we can be a strong witness for God and that could make all the difference.

FAMILY RULES:

Ephesians 6:1-4 ~ “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother” – which is the first commandment with a promise – “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Colossians 3:18-21 ~ Wives, submit to your husbands as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Children obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children or they will become discouraged.

Colossians 3:23- 24 ~ Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Colossians 4:2-3 ~ Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.

1 Timothy 5:8 ~ If anyone does not provide for his relatives and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

1 Peter 3:8-9 ~ Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

* Let’s take back our family values and our Godly view of the world. Let’s teach the youth that we come into contact with respect, love, compassion and gratitude. Let’s encourage the youth in our groups to share that respect, love, compassion and gratitude with their families and friends.

MORE SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE:

Proverbs 24:3-4

Matthew 10:36-39

Matthew 12:25

1 Corinthians 1:10

Ephesians 4:31-32

1 Timothy 5:1-4

Mark 16: 15-16 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

The first thing we need to do is to become more comfortable ourselves with sharing our faith. How can we do that? I, for one, am very uncomfortable talking to people I don’t know. The thought of sharing my faith with strangers is paralyzing for me.

So, how do we get comfortable with sharing our faith? We all know there isn’t a moment to waste. The pressure is on to tell everyone we know all that God can do for us. We need to feel the urgency of our message and remind ourselves that as men and women, we are destined to communicate.

If our son makes the winning touchdown, we tell everyone who can hear us about the game leading up to the winning touchdown. We don’t leave out any detail. So why not do the same with our personal Salvation Story? Don’t leave out any details and share it with everyone.

When your daughter is chosen as the lead in the dance recital you can’t wait to share the news with everyone who will listen. We don’t leave out any detail. So why not do the same with our personal Salvation Story? Don’t leave out any details and share it with everyone.

Matthew 5:14-16 You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on it’s stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

What happens if we miss an opportunity to share our faith? Every missed opportunity is a time we have robbed someone else from a possible blessing. So let’s share our story with our teens. Have you told them how you came to Christ?

Here is a fun way to get your teens thinking about ways to share their faith.

Things You Will Need:

One baseball cap and One balloon per team

1. Form as teams of five or six of your teens. Make the teams as even as possible to each other (try not to put all the older teens on one team or all of the athletic teens on a team).

2. Each team gets a balloon and a baseball cap.  Each team should choose someone to go first. That person wears the baseball cap on their head and tries to balance the balloon on the peak of the cap.

3. The teen with the cap on then needs to walk to a designated place (about 10 feet away) and back again while balancing the balloon on the peak of the cap. They must keep the balloon from falling but they may not use their hands.

4. Once the first person has done this, they pass the cap and balloon to the next person in line. They may use their hands while passing the cap and balloon.

5. The second person continues with the same task and so on until the first team to complete the task wins.

6. Challenge the teens to move as quickly as possible.

7. Read the following Scripture:

Romans 1:16-17 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of  everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteous from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

DISCUSSION:

* How is balancing a balloon similar to sharing our faith with others?

* How do we sometimes “drop” the opportunities to share our faith? (do not let them settle for just answer “by not telling others”. Try to get them to share more specific ways – EX. When we are in line at Walmart. Instead of losing our cool over the long wait, be friendly to the other customers, smile at the cashier, etc. Be Christlike when we are out in public without preaching at everyone). 2 Corinthians 6:4-8.

* Once we have passed our faith onto others, how can we support that person?

* Should we share our faith with our friends, both Christian and non-Christian? Why or why not?

MORE SCRIPTURE:

2 Timothy 1:8-9

Hebrews 12:1-3

Acts 20:35

Romans 12:13

Philippians 1:27

What you will need:

6 inexpensive products like a box of tissue, a thing of nail polish, new sponge, hand lotion, can of vegetables, etc.; A record of all the prices for the items purchased; a table

Scripture References:

Romans 12:1, 6-8;

Everyone’s Bargain Place

Make sure all of your inexpensive items have the price removed. Display the items on your table.

Tell each youth member they have $20 to spend. They must choose the products (and the number of each product they choose) they think they can buy with their $20. They can purchase as many of each product as they want without going over their $20.

After the teens have chosen their items and the number of each item, reveal the price of each item. The teen who comes closest to $20 without going over wins.

Once the stories are read, ask the follow-up questions below.

Follow-Up Questions:

1. What does it mean to be a good Steward?

2. What are the consequences of being a good Steward with money?

3. Read Romans 12:1, 6-8. Besides money, what else should we be good Stewards of?

4. Why is Stewardship important to God?

5. How is Stewardship an act of worship?

Close with prayer: (example)

Father, thank you for being patient with us in our lives. Help us to remember You when we are dealing with our Stewardship. Keep Your will strong inside of us as we go into this world. Let us be a shining example of You. In Jesus precious Name we pray, Amen.

* If you have a small group, say a line of prayer for each of them by name. Even if it is just “Thank you, Jesus for bringing Toni to our group” or “Be with Sam as he goes to the Orthodontist Tuesday”.

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them , for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Matthew 6:6-8

If my people who are called by my name humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place. 2 Chronicles 7:14-15

As youth leaders, we are called to help our teens understand that there really isn’t a right and wrong way to talk to Jesus; the important thing to remember is we need to talk to Jesus daily. We need to be praying for them as we teach them to pray.

Let’s pray that our young sons will grow like strong plants and that our daughters will be as lovely as columns in the corner of a palace. Psalm 144:12

I pray that God will greatly bless you with kindness, peace, and love. Jude 1:2

So, how do we pray? It’s simple, really. How do you talk with your friends? God is in on every conversation and He knows your language, slang, phrasing, etc. So it makes sense that He would want you to talk to Him the same way. After all, Jesus wants to be your friend so talk to Him as you talk to your friends.

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. Romans 8:26

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:5-7

Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my sighing. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, fir to you I pray. In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation. Psalm 5:1-3

You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. John 15:14-15

As we teach our teens to pray, we need to remember praise. Every time we pray, we need to thank God for all He has done, will do or is doing. We need to praise Him daily for our salvation and blessings.

Praise awaits you, O God, in Zion; o you our vows will be fulfilled. O you who hear prayer, to you all men will come. Psalm 65:1-2

For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; He is to be feared above all gods. 1 Chronicles 16:25

Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits-who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things. Psalm 103:1-5

Praise the Lord, you His angels, you mighty ones who do His bidding, who obey His Word. Praise the Lord, all His heavenly hosts, you His servants who do His Will. Praise the Lord, all His works everywhere in His dominion. Praise the Lord, O my soul. Psalm 103:20-22

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise-the fruit of lips that confess His Name. Hebrew 13:15

What you will need:

Pens or Pencils; Paper; Bibles

Scripture References:

Romans 5:1-5; 2Corinthians 4:18

A Little Better All The Time

As your youth group comes in, have them sit in a circle. If you have round tables available to you, these might be helpful. If you have a large youth group, break them into groups of 8 to 10 players per circle.

Give each participant a piece of paper and a pen or pencil. At the top of the paper, have the participants secretly (no one else can see) write a sentence about someone in high school. They should give their characters names (not real names) and their sentence should be about something lousy that happened to that person during the day. Examples would be “Billy lost his car keys”, “Susan failed her History Test”, “Mitch hurt his arm in gym today” etc.

Once they finish writing their sentences, have them pass their paper one place to their right. That person reads the sentence and writes another one to further the story. Once they finish their sentence, they fold the paper under the first sentence so only the second sentence shows. Now pass it to the next person on the right.

The third person reads only the second sentence then adds a third sentence. They then fold the paper so the second sentence is hidden and pass the paper to the fourth person. This continues until the paper reaches the original writer.

When the original writer receives their story back, they unfold the story and take turns reading their story out loud to the group. Hopefully some of them will have happy endings. Once the stories are read, ask the follow-up questions below.

Follow-Up Questions:

1. What does the old saying “When it rains it pours” mean?

2. What makes a bad day better?

3. Have you ever given up hope just before things get better? (encourage them to share their experiences)

4. Where does hope come from?

5. Can hope change our lives? (encourage them to answer more than yes or no)

Read the Scriptures again.

Close with prayer: (example)

Father, thank you for being with us through the tough times in our lives. Help us, Father, to remember You when we are faced with hardships. Keep Your hope strong inside of us as we go into this world. Let us be a shining example of You. In Jesus precious Name we pray, Amen.

* If you have a small group, say a line of prayer for each of them by name. Even if it is just “Thank you, Jesus for bringing Toni to our group” or “Be with Sam as he goes to the Orthodontist Tuesday”.

Teens today have active schedules. They play sports, are part of the band, take dance lessons, have orthodontist appointments, and more. We need to be part of that hectic schedule. Go to games, concerts, recitals, and even appointments if they are o.k with it and their parents are o.k. with it.

Now what can we do to counter all of the secular activities with Christian activities? Here are a few suggestions:

If your teens play musical instruments, see if they would be willing to play during your youth meeting. Maybe several teens could play instruments to lead your worship time. Maybe one or more of them would do a special on Sunday morning (check with the Pastor first).

If your teen draws, plan an art show.  Make up a “bulletin” with your teen’s names in it (one bulletin for each guest, one for each teen and one to put in the teen’s “memory book”).

If you have teens who bake or cook, serve refreshments (let your teens help plan the refreshments and make them) for the Art Show or your youth meetings.

Set aside time to put a “memory book” together with your teens. Fill it with pictures, awards, certificates, drawings, let each teen write a note stating what your youth group has meant to them, etc. On the first page, write a sentence or phrase of how each teen came into your youth group or write your youth groups mission statement. Add a page or so telling about important or funny events that happened to your youth group. The more history you can give your youth group the more special they will feel.

You know your teens best so plan something fun that showcases them and the things they like. Let them decide what they want to do, just give them ideas from what you know about them.

Ideas for building a relationship:

1. Build something together. A model airplane, a puzzle, a flowerbed, a table. Whatever you and your teens are capable of building, build.

2. Video games are very popular. Learn some of the hottest games and challenge your teens to a game. Be a good sport whether you win or lose, remember they are watching you.

3. Take a hike together. Pack a lunch and go for a hike. This is best with a group but if you have a good start on a relationship, you could do one on one or even invite a friend of theirs to come along.

4. Write a note. E-mail or snail-mail. Don’t we all like to get something from someone just because? Make it short and sweet (Thinking of you, Just wanted to say hi, etc.). You could also talk on the phone or text the teens. If you chose to talk on the phone, be sure to listen more than you talk.

5. Hang out after the school game with them and their friends (make sure they are o.k. with you being there).

6. Rent two movies to watch together. One you chose, one they chose. You can set boundaries like nothing higher than PG rating.

7. Volunteer at a rescue mission with your teens. This could be a soup kitchen, a clothes closet, etc. If you don’t have anything like this, take the teens to help someone with yard work. Make sure the person you are helping needs your help and wants it.

8. Take a teen with you when you grocery shop. This gives them a look into your life. It will help them feel like they are valued in the friendship.

9. Paint a mural together. Be sure the teen and you are skilled as artist before tackling this project. Be sure to get permission from whoever owns the wall you are painting. The youth groups Sunday School wall would be perfect.

10. Cook a meal together and then be brave enough to eat it with the teen. If it turns out well, maybe your teens and you could cook a meal for a family who is shut-in or a new mom who would appreciate not having to cook.

To get your testimony ready (while helping your teens get their ready), you need to have your Bible, paper and a pen with you. Write out your testimony.

Set aside time each day to read over your testimony. Have your teens pair off with someone they are comfortable with sharing their testimony. Now have them practice sharing their testimony with each other. Encourage them to get together with their practice partner as much as possible and practice giving their testimony. They don’t want to become mundane when telling their story they just want to be comfortable sharing it with others.

Your testimony should include the following things:

1. Your acceptance of Christ. Where were you? Who was with you?  etc.

2. The freedom from guilt. How did you feel when you accepted Chirst?

3. Your faithfulness to God. Has your faith been tested? Was God there to help you?

4. The change in your life. What is new? What is different? Bad habits that you’ve given up?

5. Your deliverance from sin. How have you been saved? What were you saved from?

6. Your assurance of eternal life. How do you know you have eternal life?

Help your teens find scripture that supports what they believe. Help them memorize scripture that supports salvation and eternal life.

Pray for and with your teens as they put together their testimony and practice becoming comfortable sharing it. We are called to tell the world and go making disciples. Don’t leave your teens hanging!

Showing your teens you care is easier than you may think. Send your teen a note/email/text saying you were thinking about them. Bring them a card to church and give it to them. If you can, set up “post office” in the teen classroom or another convenient place at church. This way they can receive notes and cards anytime.  They can check it each time they are at church to see if they had mail.

Plan a “Your night out”. Let your teens decide on a place to eat or meal for you to fix.  Spend this time listening to them tell you about their day, their concerns, their dreams, etc. This works best one-on-one but can also be beneficial with a small group. If using it in group settings, let the teens decide how much they want to share and allow them not to share if they are uncomfortable. If it is one-on-one, you can get more personal. It may be a good idea to have a female youth worker do this with your girl teens and a male youth worker do this with your boy teens. You know your teens best so you decide how best to approach them.

Punch two holes at the top of the blank index cards. Make as many cards as you want to put in the book (between 20 to 25 index cards work well but you can adjust it to fit your Bible Study, monthly theme, etc.).

Let your teens decorate the cover of their SCRIPTURE VERSE FLIP BOOK. They can color it, write on it or what ever they want to do to make it theirs.

Your teens write a memory verse on the first card behind the cover card. In the top corner, write what week you are working on. Putting the date there as well will help them know when they worked on that memory verse.

Thread your ribbon through the holes in the index cards. Now tie a bow to hold the pages in place. Yarn will work if you don’t have ribbon.

As your teens learn a verse, flip your card to the next blank page. It’s time to learn your next verse.

As you finish your booklet, say you were doing one to learn the Beatitudes, put it where you can take it out to review and start another one.

* You can do this to learn Bible stories. Just break the story down and put a highlight on each card.
* This also works with Children’s Ministry, VBS, or Sunday School.
* This will work to help teens grow closer to God as well.