
High School Week 2 (September 10): Start Small
Series Verses:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’” (Romans 1:16-17)
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us… ” (Ephesians 3:20)
Discussion Goal: God uses small steps to build our boldness.
Start Talking (Conversation Starter)
If you could suddenly be really bold in an area of your life, what would it be and why?
Think It Through (and Talk It Out)
Leader Tip: Choose questions that resonate with your group’s age, experiences, and current understanding. There’s no pressure to cover all the questions — pick the ones that fit your group the best.
What’s something you were really intimidated by that you’re now really confident in? (e.g., public speaking, swimming, driving, etc.) What changed?
Read Matthew 14:28. How might that first step out of the boat have prepared Peter for even bolder steps of faith later on?
Why do you think God uses small steps to build a bold faith in us? Give some examples of what small steps can look like.
What’s one thing God has called you to do that you’ve been avoiding out of fear? What’s one small step you can take toward it?
Pray: Jesus, thank You for using us, even when we’re scared. Thank You for the different opportunities You’ve given us to grow in our faith. In Your name we pray, amen.
Additional Questions
How can you tell when God is asking you to take a step of faith, even if it feels small at first? Can you think of times when a small step led to something bigger?
Think about your daily routines. What small habits could you add that might gradually build spiritual boldness?
Read Mark 4:30-32. Why do you think God emphasizes the mustard seed instead of a tree? How does that push back against a world that’s all about showing off the “highlight reel” instead of showing the grind it took to get there?