Middle School Week 2 (May 28): So What’s Next?
Series Verses:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2)
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.” (Psalms 1:1-3)
“You have been set apart as holy to the Lord your God, and he has chosen you from all the nations of the earth to be his own special treasure.” (Deuteronomy 14:2, NLT)
Discussion Goal: You choose today who you’ll be tomorrow.
Start Talking (Conversation Starter)
Would you rather always know what’s going to happen next, or have everything be a surprise all the time? 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.
When you hear someone say, "God has a plan for your life," what do you think or feel? Is it easy for you to believe that, or do you find it hard?
Do you believe that the choices we make today can affect our future and what God has planned for us?
In Jeremiah 29:11, God promises to give us a future and a hope. What does this mean to you?
What do you think this looks like in your own life?
How does knowing God has a good plan for you change the way you live now and the choices you make?
In Genesis 27, Jacob made a choice that changed his future. After reading Genesis 27:18-29, why do you think it’s easy for people to believe that their choices today won’t matter tomorrow?
Think about how you imagine your life will be in a year. (What grade will you be in? What activities or clubs do you want to join? What will your daily Bible study look like?) What’s one choice you can start making now to help you become that person?"
Pray: God, thank You for promising us a future filled with hope. Help us to trust that You’re working even when we don’t see it, and teach us to make choices today that line up with the good plans You have for our futures. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Additional Questions
How do your friends and the people you spend time with influence your choices? Is there someone who helps you make Godly choices that helps you grow in your faith?
In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus gives us a metaphor about two gates, or paths, but what He’s really talking about is the choices we make. What’s the difference between these two gates, and what is Jesus saying about our choices?
What are some “easy path” choices you see around you?
What choices lead through the wide gate?
Who do you want to become in your relationship with Jesus, and what choices do you need to start — or stop — making to grow into that person?