In today’s world, teenagers face a multitude of challenges and distractions. Peer pressure, social media, and the pursuit of success can often lead to feelings of insecurity and anxiety. As young believers, it is crucial for you to learn how to trust God in every situation, no matter how big or small. Psalm 86 is a powerful passage that teaches us how to lean on God and grow our faith through trusting Him.
In this lesson, we will explore the importance of trusting God, how to develop a deeper relationship with Him, and practical ways to apply these truths to your everyday life. Our time together will include Bible readings, explanations, discussion questions, a fun youth group game, and a closing prayer.
Bible Reading: Psalm 86:1-4
Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Preserve my life, for I am godly; save your servant, who trusts in you—you are my God. Be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all the day. Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.
Explanation:
- The psalmist expresses his need for God’s help, acknowledging his own weaknesses and limitations.
- He recognizes that God is the only source of true comfort and joy, lifting up his soul to the Lord.
Discussion Questions:
- How can you relate to the psalmist’s feelings of neediness and dependence on God?
- What are some situations in your life where you need God’s guidance and help?
Bible Reading: Psalm 86:5-7
For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of my trouble I call upon you, for you answer me.
Explanation:
- God is described as good, forgiving, and full of steadfast love, always ready to listen to our prayers.
- The psalmist confidently declares that God will answer him in times of trouble.
Discussion Questions:
- How have you experienced God’s goodness and forgiveness in your life?
- Can you recall a time when you felt God’s presence during a difficult situation?
Youth Group Game: Trust Fall
Objective: To build trust among group members and reinforce the importance of trusting God.
Instructions:
- Divide the group into pairs, with one person designated as the “faller” and the other as the “catcher.”
- The faller should stand with their back to the catcher, arms crossed over their chest.
- The catcher should stand close behind the faller, with arms outstretched and ready to catch.
- On the count of three, the faller will lean back and fall into the arms of the catcher, trusting them to catch them safely.
- After each successful catch, the partners can switch roles and repeat the activity.
Bible Reading: Psalm 86:8-10, 16-17
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. All the nations you have made shall come and worship before you, O Lord, and shall glorify your name. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God.
Turn to me and be gracious to me; give your strength to your servant, and save the son of your maidservant. Show me a sign of your favor, that those who hate me may see and be put to shame because you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me.
Explanation:
- The psalmist declares the uniqueness and greatness of God, acknowledging that He alone is worthy of worship.
- He asks for God’s strength and favor, confident in the Lord’s ability to help and comfort him.
Discussion Questions:
- In what ways do you see God’s greatness and uniqueness in your life and in the world around you?
- How can you actively seek God’s strength and favor in your daily life?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your goodness, forgiveness, and steadfast love. Help us to trust You in every situation we face, knowing that You alone are our source of comfort and joy. As we lean on You, strengthen our faith and draw us closer to You. May we always glorify Your name and share Your love with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.