As teenagers, we often find ourselves navigating through a world that constantly pulls our attention towards material possessions, popularity, and achievements. It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of earthly treasures without realizing the impact it has on our faith. In Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Jesus challenges us to examine our motives behind our actions and reminds us to store up treasures in heaven instead of seeking worldly recognition. This passage offers valuable insights for teenagers as they seek to grow their faith and prioritize their relationship with God.
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:1-4
Matthew 6:1-4 (NIV)
1 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2 So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Explanation
- Jesus warns us against practicing our righteousness to gain recognition from others. Our motive should be to please God, not to seek approval or praise from people.
- Giving to the needy is an example Jesus uses to illustrate this point. When we give, it should be done with a humble and genuine heart, without seeking attention or applause.
- Jesus encourages us to give in secret, where only God sees our actions. He assures us that our Heavenly Father will reward us for our genuine acts of kindness.
Discussion Questions
- Have you ever done something good for others with the intention of gaining recognition or praise? How did that make you feel?
- Why do you think Jesus emphasized giving in secret? What impact does it have on our faith and character?
- How can we ensure that our motives for doing good align with God’s will? What steps can we take to cultivate a humble and genuine heart?
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:16-21
Matthew 6:16-21 (NIV)
16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Explanation
- Jesus also addresses the topic of fasting, cautioning us against acting somberly to gain attention from others. Instead, our focus should be on seeking God’s approval and building a deeper connection with Him.
- Jesus emphasizes the importance of storing up treasures in heaven rather than earthly possessions. Earthly treasures are temporary and vulnerable to destruction, while heavenly treasures are everlasting and secure.
- Our priorities and desires reveal where our hearts truly lie. When we invest in heavenly treasures by seeking God’s kingdom and living according to His ways, our hearts are aligned with Him.
Discussion Questions
- In what ways can fasting be a spiritual practice that draws us closer to God? Have you ever fasted? What did you learn from that experience?
- How do the desires for earthly treasures impact our relationship with God? What steps can we take to prioritize heavenly treasures in our lives?
- Reflecting on your own life, where do you find it most challenging to store up treasures in heaven rather than seeking worldly recognition or possessions?
Youth Group Game: “Treasure Hunt”
In this game, divide the youth into teams and provide each team with a list of clues leading to hidden treasures around the church premises. The treasures can be small prizes or symbolic items representing heavenly treasures (e.g., a Bible verse card, a note of encouragement). Encourage the teams to work together and emphasize the importance of seeking valuable treasures beyond material possessions.
Closing Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for reminding us through Your Word of the importance of storing up treasures in heaven. Help us to examine our motives and desires as we navigate through this world. We acknowledge that it’s easy to get caught up in seeking recognition and earthly possessions, but we desire to align our hearts with You and prioritize heavenly treasures.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.