As teenagers, we face many uncertainties and fears in our lives. Sometimes, it can feel like no one understands or cares about what we’re going through. In times like these, it’s essential to find refuge in God. Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 reminds us that God is our rock and our fortress, and we can trust Him to take care of us.
Why Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 is Important for Teenagers:
Psalm 31 speaks to our need for God in times of trouble. In this psalm, David cries out to God in distress and trusts Him to be his refuge and to rescue him. It is a reminder to us that even in the darkest of times, we can turn to God and find safety and security in Him.
Introduction Youth Group Game:
Before starting the lesson, have the students collect small rocks or pebbles during a scavenger hunt around the church or outside area. When everyone returns, have each student write a fear or worry they are currently facing on their rock. Then, have them place it in a common area (a box or bowl) and pray together for God’s refuge to overcome their fears.
Bible Reading:
Psalm 31:1-2 (NRSV)
In you, O Lord, I seek refuge; do not let me ever be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me. Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily. Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me.
Explanation:
- David cries out to God to be his refuge and deliver him quickly.
- David uses several metaphors to describe God’s protection – a rock, a fortress, and a refuge.
- God’s righteousness ensures David’s safety and deliverance.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean to seek refuge in God?
- How do the metaphors David uses help us understand God’s protection?
- What does it mean for God to be righteous?
- Why is it important to have faith that God will deliver us?
Bible Reading:
Psalm 31:3-5 (NRSV)
You are indeed my rock and my fortress; for your name’s sake lead me and guide me, take me out of the net that is hidden for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.
Explanation:
- David acknowledges that God is his rock and fortress.
- David asks God for guidance and rescue from the traps set for him.
- David commits his spirit to God, acknowledging that God has redeemed him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean for God to lead and guide us?
- How can we recognize the traps that might be set for us?
- Why is it important to commit our spirit to God?
- How does it help us to know that God has redeemed us?
Bible Reading:
Psalm 31:15-16 (NRSV)
My times are in your hand; deliver me from the hand of my enemies and persecutors. Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your steadfast love.
Explanation:
- David recognizes that his times (his life) are in God’s hands.
- David asks God to deliver him from his enemies and persecutors.
- David asks for God’s face to shine upon him and save him because of God’s steadfast love.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean for our times to be in God’s hands?
- How can we trust God to deliver us from our enemies or those who oppose us?
- Why is it important to ask for God’s face to shine upon us?
- How does it help us to know that God’s love is steadfast?
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for being our refuge and our fortress. We acknowledge that our times are in your hands and that we can trust you to guide us and deliver us from our enemies. We ask that you would shine your face upon us and save us in your steadfast love. Help us to remember that we can always turn to you in times of trouble. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.