Introduction: Why This Matters for Teenagers
Change is a big part of life, especially for teens. Whether it’s starting high school, making new friends, or figuring out who you want to be, change can feel overwhelming. But the Bible reminds us that God is always doing something new in our lives. Today, we’ll learn how to trust God through life’s changes and embrace His plans with confidence.
Main Teaching: Trusting God in Times of Change
Bible Reading: Isaiah 43:18-19
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
Explanation for Teenagers
- God often uses change to bring about something new and better in our lives.
- Holding onto the past can stop you from seeing what God is doing now.
- Even when things feel uncertain, God is making a way and providing for you.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What is one big change you’ve faced recently? How did it make you feel?
- How can focusing on God help you navigate uncertain times?
- What does it mean to “forget the former things” and trust God’s new plans?
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot.”
Explanation for Teenagers
- Life has different seasons, and every season has a purpose.
- Some seasons are about growth, while others may involve letting go of things.
- Trusting God means believing that each season is part of His plan for your life.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- How do you feel about the idea that life has seasons?
- What are some “seasons” you’ve experienced so far?
- How can you rely on God’s timing instead of trying to control everything yourself?
Bible Reading: Philippians 3:13-14
“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Explanation for Teenagers
- Moving forward in faith means letting go of past mistakes or successes that hold you back.
- God has a bigger goal for your life—one that focuses on eternity with Him.
- Pressing forward takes effort and trust, but God is with you every step of the way.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What is one thing from the past you need to let go of?
- How does focusing on God’s “prize” help you handle challenges?
- What are some ways you can “press on” in your faith this year?
Youth Group Activity: “Seasons of Life Timeline”
Materials Needed:
- Large sheets of paper or a whiteboard
- Markers
Instructions:
- Create a timeline across the paper or board. Label it “The Seasons of My Life.”
- Ask each teen to think of different “seasons” they’ve gone through (e.g., elementary school, trying a new sport, facing a big change).
- Have them write or draw these seasons on the timeline, marking high points and low points.
- Discuss how God was present in each season, even when it was hard to see.
Debrief:
- Emphasize that God is faithful in every season, and He uses all experiences to shape who we are.
Conclusion: Embracing God’s New Thing
Change can be scary, but it’s also an opportunity to grow and trust God in deeper ways. By letting go of the past and focusing on His promises, you can step into the future with confidence. God is always doing something new—are you ready to embrace it?
Closing Prayer
“Lord, thank You for being with us through every season of life. Help us to let go of the past and trust You as You do new things in our lives. Give us faith to move forward and courage to embrace Your plans. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”