Today we’re diving into a super important topic that’s key for us as we grow in our faith: Walking by the Spirit. We’re looking at Galatians 5:16-18, where Paul talks about living a life led by the Holy Spirit.
Why is this important? As teenagers, you’re navigating a world full of choices and challenges. Understanding how to walk by the Spirit can help you make decisions that align with God’s will and lead to a life full of purpose and joy.
Opening Prayer
Let’s start with a prayer:
“Dear Lord, thank you for bringing us together today. As we explore your Word, open our hearts and minds to understand what it means to walk by your Spirit. Help us to apply these lessons in our daily lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:16-18
“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Walk by the Spirit: This means living each day in the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit.
- Desires of the flesh: These are selfish and sinful desires that go against God’s will.
- Conflict between flesh and Spirit: There’s a constant battle within us between our sinful nature and the Holy Spirit.
- Not under the law: Being led by the Spirit means we live in God’s grace and not under the strict requirements of the Old Testament law.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What do you think it means to “walk by the Spirit” in your everyday life?
- Can you think of a time when you felt the conflict between what you wanted to do and what you felt God wanted you to do?
- How can we better listen to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our decisions?
Bible Reading: Romans 8:5-6
“Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Mindset: Our thoughts and focus are crucial. If we focus on selfish desires, we drift away from God. If we focus on the Spirit, we align with God’s will.
- Life and peace: Living by the Spirit brings true life and peace, unlike the emptiness of living by the flesh.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What are some ways we can set our minds on what the Spirit desires?
- How do you think living by the Spirit can bring peace into your life?
Youth Group Game: “Spirit vs. Flesh Tug-of-War”
Materials: Rope, two markers to designate starting points, and a large space.
Instructions:
- Divide the group into two teams.
- One team represents the “Spirit” and the other represents the “flesh”.
- Have a classic tug-of-war match.
- After the game, discuss how this represents the internal struggle between the Spirit and the flesh.
Debrief Questions:
- How did it feel to be in a tug-of-war battle?
- How does this game illustrate the spiritual battle Paul talks about in Galatians 5:16-18?
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:18
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
Explanation For Teenagers
- Filled with the Spirit: This means allowing the Holy Spirit to control and guide your life completely, instead of being controlled by harmful influences.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What are some things in your life that might prevent you from being filled with the Spirit?
- How can you make space in your life to be more filled with the Spirit?
Closing Prayer
“Lord, thank you for teaching us about walking by the Spirit. Help us to remember that your Spirit is always with us, guiding us in every decision we make. Give us the strength to choose your way over our own desires. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Final Thoughts
Remember, walking by the Spirit isn’t just a one-time thing. It’s a daily choice to let God lead your life. Keep seeking Him, stay connected with other believers, and trust that He will guide you every step of the way. Have a great week!