Welcome to today’s Sunday school lesson where we’ll be diving into a topic that’s relevant to each and every one of us: anxiety and worry. As teenagers, we face numerous challenges and pressures that can often lead to feelings of anxiety and worry. It’s essential to address these issues and learn how to find peace in God’s promises.
God’s Word provides us with guidance and comfort in times of anxiety. We’re going to explore some powerful verses that speak directly to our hearts and minds. So, let’s get started!
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-34
Let’s start by reading a passage from the book of Matthew, where Jesus addresses the topic of worry:
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Jesus emphasizes that worrying about our basic needs won’t add any value to our lives. Instead, He encourages us to trust in God’s provision and care.
- He points out how God takes care of even the birds of the air and the flowers of the field, illustrating His abundant provision.
- Jesus highlights that worrying about material possessions is a futile pursuit, as our heavenly Father knows our needs and promises to provide for us.
- The key to overcoming worry lies in seeking God’s kingdom and His righteousness above all else.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How do you personally define anxiety and worry? How do they affect your daily life?
- According to the passage we just read, what are some reasons Jesus gives for not worrying?
- How does trusting in God’s provision help combat anxiety and worry?
- What are some practical ways you can seek God’s kingdom and righteousness in your life?
- Share a personal experience where you found peace in God’s promises during a challenging time.
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:6-7
Let’s dive into another Bible passage that offers great wisdom on dealing with anxiety and finding peace:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- The apostle Paul urges us not to be anxious about anything, emphasizing that there is no situation too big or too small for God’s care and attention.
- He encourages us to bring our worries and concerns before God through prayer, petition, and thanksgiving.
- The peace of God, which surpasses human understanding, is promised to guard our hearts and minds when we surrender our anxieties to Him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Why do you think Paul advises us not to be anxious about anything? Is it realistic to live a life free of anxiety?
- What are some practical ways you can present your requests to God with thanksgiving in the midst of anxious moments?
- How have you experienced the peace of God guarding your heart and mind? Share a specific example, if possible.
- In what ways can our faith in Christ Jesus help us combat anxiety and worry?
Youth Group Game: “Promises in a Jar”
Divide into small groups and provide each group with a jar filled with folded pieces of paper. On each piece of paper, write down a promise from God’s Word that relates to overcoming anxiety and finding peace. Take turns pulling out a promise from the jar, reading it aloud, and discussing how it applies to our lives. Encourage everyone to share personal insights and experiences related to the promises.
Closing Prayer
Let’s close this powerful lesson in prayer:
“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word that provides comfort, guidance, and promises for us to cling to when anxiety and worry threaten to overwhelm us. Help us to trust in Your provision and seek Your kingdom above all else. We surrender our worries and concerns to You, knowing that Your peace surpasses all understanding. Guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, so that we may experience the freedom and joy that come from finding peace in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Remember, amazing teenagers, God’s promises are there for us to hold onto. In moments of anxiety and worry, turn to Him, seek His face, and allow His peace to fill your hearts. You are not alone, and He will carry you through every challenge you face. Stay strong in your faith and keep seeking God’s peace!