As teenagers, it can be easy to feel as though we are not in control of our lives. There are so many decisions to make and so many things that seem outside of our control. However, as we read Psalm 47, we are reminded of the power and sovereignty of God. This psalm urges us to worship God as the true king of all the earth. Through this lesson, we will explore the meaning of this psalm and how we can apply it to our everyday lives.
Psalm 47 is an extraordinary song of joy, celebration, and awe of God’s sovereignty. But why does it matter to us as teenagers?
Often, we might feel like life is out of control. Homework piles up, relationships get complicated, and the future can seem uncertain. But today’s lesson will remind us that even when life feels chaotic, God is in control. As we study Psalm 47, we’ll learn about the great King who rules over all, and we’ll discover how this knowledge can bring us peace, joy, and a better understanding of how we fit into His plan.
Bible Reading: Psalm 47:1-2
1 Clap your hands, all you nations;
shout to God with cries of joy.
2 For the Lord Most High is awesome,
the great King over all the earth.
Explanation
- In this passage, we see the psalmist calling for all nations to worship God with joy.
- The psalmist reminds us that God is the true king over all the earth, and that we should approach him with reverence and awe.
Discussion Questions
- What does it mean for God to be the true king over all the earth?
- How can we approach God with both joy and reverence?
- In what ways can we remind ourselves of God’s sovereignty in the midst of difficult situations?
Bible Reading: Psalm 47:5-7
5 God has ascended amid shouts of joy,
the Lord amid the sounding of trumpets.
6 Sing praises to God, sing praises;
sing praises to our King, sing praises.
7 For God is the King of all the earth;
sing to him a psalm of praise.
Explanation
- In these verses, the psalmist encourages us to sing praises to God.
- The psalmist reminds us of the joy that comes from worshipping God, and urges us to celebrate accordingly.
- Once again, the psalmist emphasizes the sovereignty of God, reminding us that he is the true king over all the earth.
Discussion Questions
- What is the role of celebration in our faith?
- In what ways can we celebrate and worship God in our everyday lives?
- How does remembering God’s sovereignty bring us joy?
Youth Group Game: “King of the Hill”
Objective: The objective of this game is to see who can stay on top of a “hill” the longest.
Before we dive into the Bible, let’s start with a fun game. It’s called “King of the Mountain,” and it’s a great metaphor for what we’ll be discussing today. The goal of the game is to stay on top of the hill (or designated area) as long as possible. You’re not allowed to use hands to push, shove, or use any force to get others off the hill. Instead, you must use strategy, alliances, and quick thinking.
As we play, keep in mind the concept of God’s sovereignty. Unlike our game, God doesn’t compete for His place; His Kingship is absolute and unchallenged.
Instructions:
- Divide the group into two teams.
- Choose a large, flat area outdoors.
- Use hula hoops or other markers to designate the top of a “hill”.
- The teams will take turns trying to remove the other team off the hill and take control of the space – but without using their hands to push or shove.
- The team that can stay on top for the longest period of time wins!
Bible Reading: Psalm 47:8-9
8 God reigns over the nations;
God is seated on his holy throne.
9 The nobles of the nations assemble
as the people of the God of Abraham,
for the kings of the earth belong to God;
he is greatly exalted.
Explanation
- In these final verses, the psalmist reiterates the power and sovereignty of God.
- We see that God reigns over the nations and is seated on his holy throne.
- Additionally, the psalmist reminds us that the leaders of the earth belong to God, and that he is greatly exalted.
Discussion Questions
- How does God’s sovereignty over the nations make you feel?
- In what ways can we submit to God’s authority in our lives?
- Why is it important to remember that God is exalted above all things?
Closing Prayer
Dear God, we thank you for reminding us of your power and sovereignty through this psalm. As we go out into the world this week, help us to remember that you are the true king over all the earth. May we approach you with joy and reverence, and celebrate your goodness in our everyday lives. Amen.