As teenagers, it can be difficult to navigate the ups and downs of life. We often face challenges that can make us feel discouraged or overwhelmed. The passage we will be studying today offers hope and encouragement in times of difficulty, reminding us of God’s power and presence in our lives.
Bible Reading: Psalm 68:1-3
“God shall arise, his enemies shall be scattered;
and those who hate him shall flee before him!
As smoke is driven away, so you shall drive them away;
as wax melts before fire,
so the wicked shall perish before God!
But the righteous shall be glad;
they shall exult before God;
they shall be jubilant with joy!”
Explanation
- This passage begins with a declaration of God’s power and might.
- The imagery used likens God’s enemies to smoke being driven away and wax melting before fire.
- The righteous are called to rejoice and be glad in God’s presence.
Bible Reading: Psalm 68:4-6
“Sing to God, sing praises to his name;
lift up a song to him who rides through the deserts;
his name is the Lord;
exult before him!
Father of the fatherless and protector of widows
is God in his holy habitation.
God settles the solitary in a home;
he leads out the prisoners to prosperity,
but the rebellious dwell in a parched land.”
Explanation
- The psalmist calls on all people to sing praises to God and exalt his name.
- God is described as a father to the fatherless and a protector of widows.
- God cares for those who are alone and oppressed, leading them to a place of prosperity.
Bible Reading: Psalm 68:7-10
“O God, when you went out before your people,
when you marched through the wilderness, Selah
the earth quaked, the heavens poured down rain,
before God, the One of Sinai,
before God, the God of Israel.
Rain in abundance, O God, you shed abroad;
you restored your inheritance as it languished;
your flock found a dwelling in it;
in your goodness, O God, you provided for the needy.”
Explanation
- The psalmist recalls God’s faithfulness to the Israelites, leading them through the wilderness and providing for their needs.
- God is credited with restoring his people and providing for the needy.
Bible Reading: Psalm 68:32-35
“O kingdoms of the earth, sing to God;
sing praises to the Lord, Selah
to him who rides in the heavens, the ancient heavens;
behold, he sends out his voice, his mighty voice.
Ascribe power to God,
whose majesty is over Israel,
and whose power is in the skies.
Awesome is God from his sanctuary;
the God of Israel—
he is the one who gives power and strength to his people.
Blessed be God!”
Explanation
- The psalm ends with a call for all the earth to sing praises to God.
- God is described as powerful and majestic, worthy of all praise and glory.
- God gives power and strength to his people, and we are blessed to be in his care.
Discussion Questions
1. What does this passage teach us about God’s power and presence in our lives?
2. How does knowing that God cares for the fatherless, widows, and oppressed give us comfort and hope?
3. Why do you think the psalmist calls on all people to sing praises to God? How can music be a form of worship?
4. What are some ways we can see God’s power and faithfulness in our lives today?
Youth Group Game: Bible Charades
For this game, write down different Bible stories or characters on small pieces of paper and put them in a hat. Have one person pick a piece of paper and act out the story or character without speaking while the rest of the group tries to guess what it is. This game will encourage the teenagers to think about different Bible stories and characters while having fun.
Closing Prayer
Dear God, thank you for your power and presence in our lives. Help us to trust in your faithfulness and care for us, even when we face difficult challenges. As we go out into the world, may we be a light for you and share your love with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.