SPRING 2014www.lifeway.com/you

I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES! Jesus’ miracles relieve suffering, make God known, and give eternal life.

Leader Guide Included

SPRING 2014

SPRING 2014YOU - CONNECT. GROW

. SERVE. GO!

STANDING ON THE PROMISES

God is true to His Word.

REJECT!

Whom will you follow?

COMING NEXT QUARTERTHE MASTER PLAN

Good Enough for the World

MY RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WORLD God can do incredible work through our circumstances.

JUST DO IT!

God has a plan for your life.

IT’S NOT ABOUT ME

What is the cost of sacrifice?

Kingdom Agenda: Living Life God’s Way

To order this bible study visit www.lifeway.com/KingdomAgenda o call 1.800.458.2772.

Dr. Tony EvansIn this six-session bible study, Dr. Tony Evans teaches that the Bible has provided us with a clear authority and a comprehensive, dynamic approach to all of life. Following our own agendas instead of God’s will lead to chaos in our personal lives. And a chaotic personal life rapidly expands to affect the family, the church, and society in general. In fact, the absence of a comprehensive agenda for our lives has led to deterioration in our world of cosmic proportions. The time has come for Christians to reevaluate and recommit to pursuing God’s one and only Kingdom agenda. Are you willing?

L I V I N G L I F E G O D ’ S W A Y

THE BIBLE STUDY

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BORN AGAIN Have you ever wondered what the phrase “born again” means? The Bible records that Jesus used the phrase in a conversation with a man named Nicodemus. Nicodemus approached Jesus at night. He was curious about Jesus and the kingdom of God.

Jesus told him: “Unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). Nicodemus responded, “But how can anyone be born when he is old?” (John 3:4).

Nicodemus was a highly moral man who obeyed God’s law. He was a respected leader of the Jewish community. No doubt he was a fine man. Yet something was lacking. Like Nicodemus many people today confuse religion with new birth in Christ. Phrases like “I pray regularly” or “I believe there is a God” often are confused with a real new-birth experience.

New birth begins with the Holy Spirit convicting someone that he or she is a sinner. Because of sin, we are spiritually dead. For this reason spiritual birth, as Jesus described it, is necessary. God loves us and gives us spiritual birth when we ask Him for it.

The Bible says all persons are sinners (Romans 3:23). Jesus died on a cross and was raised from the dead to save sinners. To be born again means that a person admits to God that he or she is a sinner, repents of sin, believes in or trusts Christ, and confesses faith in Christ as Savior and Lord. Jesus told Nicodemus that everyone who believes in (places faith in) Christ would not perish (John 3:16). Jesus is the only One who can save us (John 14:6).

To believe in Jesus is to be born again. Confess your sins and ask Jesus right now to save you. “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Acts 2:21). After you have received Jesus Christ into your life, share your decision with another person and, following Christ’s example, ask for baptism by immersion in your local church as a public expression of your faith (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:6).

WITH AN OPEN HEARTMARK 12:29-31

WITH WILLING HANDS1 PETER 4:10-11

WITH READY FEET MATTHEW 28:19-20

IN BODY, MIND, & SPIRITROMANS 12:2

Connect urges you to worship, pray, fellowship, and relate to others in positive relationships at work, at home, and in other settings. Spiritual fitness results when you connect with God, with others, and with your church family.

Grow refers to learning and understanding more about God and His expectations of His people, which comes through Bible study. You grow by applying that knowledge to your everyday living.

Serve describes the work you do inside your church. Your church is full of ministry and service opportunities. You serve by using your spiritual gifts, skills, and passions to glorify God. All of us must work together for the church to function as God intended.

Go moves you outside the church and into the community and the world. Evangelism and missions are ways to go into your community and the world in the name of Jesus Christ. It might be uncomfortable at first, but you will experience first-hand the difference Christ can make through you.

Connect, Grow, Serve, Go must impact YOU, the individual, before it can permeate your circle of friends, your Bible study group, and then the church as a whole. But balance is the key! We must be actively participating in all four areas if we want to be spiritually healthy. All Go and no Connect with God or other believers results in powerless activity and wears you out. A steady diet of Grow without the action of Serve or Go leads to unhealthy spiritual obesity and laziness. We need a balanced spiritual diet to remain fit and able to serve God in the ways He has gifted us. The YOU lessons will help you Connect , Grow , Serve , and Go . Look for these icons throughout this issue. They will help you check and maintain your spiritual health.

Visit www.lifeway.com/adultstrategy for more about Connect, Grow, Serve, Go.

YOU 3

STAYING FIT... SPIRITUALLYWe talk a lot about the importance of staying physically fit, but what about the health of your spirit? Connect, Grow, Serve, Go is a call to evaluate your present spiritual condition and discover ways to improve your spiritual health. Packed into each biblical concept—Connect, Grow, Serve, Go—is a simple way you can move forward, not remain stagnant. Best of all, these tools will stand the test of time—no “fad” diets here. They will help you become spiritually healthy, and stay that way.

CONTENTS

FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

UNIT 3

UNIT 2

UNIT 1

DAILY READINGS are included after each lesson.

Spring 2014

29

57

122

140

154

CREOLE AND ENGLISH MIX AT HAITIAN CHURCH PLANTby Joe Conway

4 CRITICAL ASPECTS OF GOSPEL-CENTERED DISCIPLESHIPby Chip Dean

ARE YOU A HOARDER?by Bill Delvaux

WHY WE NEED GOD’S KINGDOM AGENDAby Tony Evans

HOW TO LAUNCH STRONG BIBLE STUDY GROUPSby David Francis

POWERFUL TEACHING PRACTICES FOR SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATIONby Christina Zimmerman

VOLUME 6, NUMBER 3 11

17

23

31

45

51

59

65

73

79 93

87

JUST DO IT!

I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES

MY RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WORLD

The Plan RevisionedJonah 4:1-11

Leader Pages (pp. 156–159)

The Plan RevisitedJonah 2:2-4,7-9; 3:1-3a

Leader Pages (pp. 150–153)

The Messed-Up PlanJonah 1:3,8-10,14-17

Leader Pages (pp. 146–149)

The Master PlanJonah 1:1-2; 3:3b-10

Leader Pages (pp. 142–145)

When the Miracle Doesn’t Happen2 Corinthians 12:7-10; James 5:13-15

Leader Pages (pp. 136–139)

Believing Without SeeingJohn 20:13-16,26-29,31

Leader Pages (pp. 132–135)

When Seeing Is Not BelievingJohn 6:14-15,25-26,41-42,51-52,66

Leader Pages (pp. 128–131)

It’s a Miracle!John 5:5-9a,19-21,24

Leader Pages (pp. 124–127)

A Stranger Among Us—So?Leviticus 19:33-34; Zechariah 7:8-10; Ezekiel 47:22-23

Leader Pages (pp. 114–117)

And Justice for ALL ...Nehemiah 5:1-12

Leader Pages (pp. 110–113)

Little or MuchPhilippians 4:10-19

Leader Pages (pp. 106–109)

I Don’t Want to Live ScaredPsalm 27:1-6,14

Leader Pages (pp. 102–105)

2 How to Become a Christian 3 Staying Fit Spiritually 6 A Word from the Editor 7 Suggested Resources

8 Church Success Stories 99 Scripture Memory Cards101 How to Use Leader Pages160 Glossary of Key Words

162 Meet the Writers/Coming Next Quarter

37 Dare to Be a DanielDaniel 6:4-7,10,11-12,16b

Leader Pages (pp. 118–121)

85

Beverly

A WORDFROM THE EDITOR...

SUGGESTED DISCIPLE-MAKING RESOURCESHere’s a list of resources you can use to deepen your understanding of the units of study this quarter. These resources complement the lessons for this quarter and can be used for small group study, midweek study, or personal Bible study.

Visit www.lifeway.com or call 1-800-458-2772 for more information or to purchase any of these products.

YOU 7

When I seek to do God’s will and am fully obedient, my life is filled with amazing moments!

I vividly remember the time years ago when I stepped out of my comfortable “corporate zone” and into full-time ministry, leaving everything familiar behind. Downright scary! I also remember when I became a “nontraditional” graduate school student and repeatedly asked myself, “Am I in over my head?” And then there was the time I served on my very first mission trip. My initial thought was, You gotta be kidding me!

Amazingly along the way, I’ve learned that everything God allows His people to experience has a twofold purpose: to stretch and to strengthen us on our life journey. Today I can say, I’ve come a long way!

My prayer as you study these lessons on social issues, Jesus’ miracles, and God’s plan is that you will find yourself becoming more open to new possi-bilities and God’s will for your life so you too can get ready for more amazing moments!

Peace and blessings,

ERIC GEIGER Vice President, Church Resources

BEVERLY SONNIER Content Editor

FAITH WHATLEY

Director, Adult Ministry

PHILIP NATIONDirector, Adult Ministry Publishing

Send questions/comments to:Editor, YOUOne LifeWay PlazaNashville, TN 37234-0175Or make comments on the Web at: www.lifeway.com/YOU or YOU@lifeway.com

Printed in the United States of America

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE THAT? A FAITH CONVERSATION (UNIT 1)Why Do You Believe That? A Faith Conversation by Mary Jo Sharp provides a personal study experience for this video-driven wom-en’s Bible study to equip women to have meaningful spiritual conversations. How confident do you feel in talking about matters of faith? Do you wish you could express your beliefs more effec-tively? This practical seven-session study will assist believers in gaining understanding and skills to share Jesus effectively with others, better understand your own faith, answer your doubts, build your confidence, and start changing lives for the kingdom.

DISCIPLE MAKING: NO PLAN B (UNIT 2) Jesus left us no Plan B. He spent three years revealing His Fa-ther, His kingdom, and His gospel, and now it’s our turn. Disciple Making: No Plan B by Verge Network is a six-session Bible study to help you learn how to make disciples by modeling Jesus, pointing to Jesus, and putting Jesus’ words into practice. You’ll see how discipleship is motivated and fueled by the gospel. And if you fear you can’t make disciples because you’re unfit or incompetent, you’ll find the gospel especially qualifies you for making disciples of Jesus. And in light of what God shows your group, you’ll create a plan for living missionally beyond the extent of this study.

THE WAYS OF GOD: HOW GOD REVEALS HIMSELF BEFORE A WATCHING WORLD (UNIT 3)The Ways of God: How God Reveals Himself Before a Watching World by Henry T. Blackaby and Roy T. Edgemon is the 2013 Doctrine Study. This six-session Bible study for adults gives believers greater insight into God’s nature and provides guidance for aligning their lives with His ways. God’s ways are different from our ways. So if we want God to work through us, we first need to understand His nature and His ways. This careful study of His sovereignty, love, holiness, and other aspects of His nature presents clear statements about the relationship between God’s ways and the impact this understanding will have on a believer’s life.

Spring 2014 | Vol. 6 No. 3

YOU (ISSN 1943-6230, Item 005030553) is published quarterly by LifeWay Christian Resources, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234,

Thom S. Rainer, President. © 2013 LifeWay Christian Resources.

For ordering or inquiries VISIT www.lifeway.com, or WRITE LifeWay Church Resources Customer Service,

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Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible® Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002,

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8 YOU8 YOU8 YOU8 YOU

CHURCH SUCCESS STORIES

8 YOU

Living Word Baptist Church, Indianapolis, Indiana “We have used the YOU curriculum since its inception and have enjoyed it immensely. As a former special education teacher, I understand the value of repetition for learning and retention. This past year we applied this principle to the teaching ministry in using the YOU material in our Sunday School, Bible study, and morning worship message. It has generated excitement and engagement within our congregation extending the life theme from the text. We highly recommend YOU.” Pastor Reginald B. Fletcher

Staff Comments:“YOU makes Sunday School enjoyable, reflective, challenging, easy to understand, and it applies to everyday life.”Diana Thompson, Teacher

“The YOU curriculum is personable, self-examining, and enlightening. It really helps you grow in your potential for Christ.”Nancy Collins, Teacher

“Given the choice of curriculum, our staff unanimously chose YOU.” Darryl Daniels, Sunday School Superintendent

We’d love to hear how your church or small group navigated the challenges of switching to YOU, the blessings and benefits your church or small group experienced since switching to YOU, and why you would encourage other churches or small groups to give YOU a try. Please limit your response to 150 words or less. Feel free to provide a photo (jpeg) of a class or group using YOU.Send responses to: beverly.sonnier@lifeway.com.

Most Christians are being crucified on a cross between two thieves:

yesterday’s regret and tomorrow’s worries.

Warren Wiersbe

Living Word Baptist ChurchIndianapolis, Indiana

YOU 9

The leader pages for this lesson are found on pages 102–105.

LESSON PASSAGES

UNIT 1, LESSON 1

The Question: How can I live in a terror-filled world?The Point: Trust God completely with our lives and futures.

I Don’t Want to Live ScaredBackground Passage: Psalm 27:1-14Lesson Passages: Psalm 27:1-6,14

MEMORY VERSEPsalm 27:1

The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom

should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom should

I be afraid?

a Light: This is the first instance in Scripture where light is used to describe God. It stands in contrast to darkness, a common symbol of evil and fear.

b One thing: David’s passion was to know and experience God more deeply. Compare his desire with Paul’s “one thing” in Philippians 3:7-14.

c Cover of His tent: In ancient Israel a man’s tent was his home, serving as his shelter and protection. It also bound him to protect anyone who came under his “roof.” For David, God’s tent was stronger than any human fortress.

d Wait: The word implies a tense and eager expectation for God to move on David’s behalf. It was a matter of when, not if, God would move. In December 2012, we heard a lot about the

Mayan calendar and the end of the world. In 2011, a California preacher named Harold Camping predicted the end of the world not once but twice. Hundreds of people have told us the world was going to end, and each day has come and gone, and we’re still here.

But just because Earth has not exploded or been incinerated doesn’t mean it’s not a scary place. If we’re not careful, we can be over-whelmed by fears raised by violence, illness, crime, political instability, or disaster. Even religion terrifies some people.

This lesson on social issues is designed to help you get past the fear so you can move forward in faith. It’s going to cover topics like trusting God in frightening times, handling money in an unstable economy, responding to injustice in the world, caring for the immi-grants in our country, and standing up for God when His ways conflict with human law. These are tough issues that raise tough questions, but we need to address them and embrace them as children of God. God placed you in this world for a reason—to be a light for Him. Don’t be afraid of the world. Learn how to re-late to it. Learn how to love it as Jesus does.

Unit 1 My Relationship with the World

A Bible Study on Social Issues

PSALM 27:1-6,14

1 The Lord is my a light and my salvation— whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom should I be afraid?

2 When evildoers came against me to ✱ devour my flesh, my foes and my enemies stumbled and fell.

3 Though an army deploys against me, my heart is not afraid; though a war breaks out against me, still I am confident.

4 I have asked b one thing from the Lord; it is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, gazing on the beauty of the Lord and seeking Him in His temple.

5 For He will conceal me in His shelter in the day of adversity; He will hide me under the c cover of His tent; He will set me high on a rock.

6 Then my head will be high above my enemies around me; I will offer sacrifices in His tent with shouts of joy. I will sing and make music to the Lord.

............

14 d Wait for the Lord; ✱ be strong and courageous. Wait for the Lord.

YOU 11

KEY WORDS

For more information about key words (✱), visit the glossary on pages 160-161.

10 YOU

Diggin’ Deeper

UNIT 1LESSON 1

How can I live in a terror-filled world?

Facing FearFear is a common thread that runs throughout human exis-tence. But God calls His people to move beyond fear by trust-ing Him in every area of their lives. David overcame his fears by spending time with God and celebrating His goodness.

Read the verses below and identify what each passage says about overcoming fear as believers.

• Psalm 23:4-6

• Romans 8:31,35-39

• 2 Timothy 1:7

• 1 John 4:17-18

WITH CONFIDENCE IN THE LORD PSALM 27:1-3

As a boy tending his father’s sheep, David killed a lion and a bear (1 Sam. 17:34-36). Later he struck down a giant who had threat-ened the Israelite army and insulted God (1 Sam. 17:48-52). He had overcome long odds before. Now he was facing a desperate situation again.

What giants have stared you down in life? What emo-tions crept into your life through those encounters?

While David had once been the jewel in Saul’s royal house, the jealous king had turned against his young warrior. Saul had tried to kill David with a spear (1 Sam. 18:10-11). Another time he sent David into a dangerous situation, hoping the Philistines would de-stroy him (1 Sam. 18:22-27). David went into exile in the wilder-ness, hiding in caves and dodging Saul’s attacks.

Read Psalm 27:1-3. David probably wrote this psalm during his time in the wilderness running from Saul. While David had God’s promise that he would survive and become king one day, his present

Horror movies have been making a comeback of sorts. In 2013, we saw The Conjur-ing weave a tale about a haunted house, while Stephen King’s telekinetic Carrie re-turned to the big screen in a new take on a 1976 classic. Maybe more people are turning to frightening films to escape the really scary world of everyday life—fam-ily troubles, financial turmoil, health scares, terrorist threats, and much more. Where can we turn for hope? In Psalm 27, David found his hope in the Lord. We can, too.

circumstances seemed hopeless. The one thing David could cling to during these terrible days was his confidence in God.

He used three primary metaphors to describe God’s faithfulness in every circumstance. First, he said God was His a light (Key Words, p. 11), representing the Lord’s holiness and truth. God’s light drives out darkness (a symbol of fear) from our lives. David also said God was his salvation and his stronghold. He freely acknowledged that God was the only One who could save him from Saul’s hand, and the reality of God’s presence moved David beyond his fear to a faith that did not waver.

What words or images would you use to describe God’s work in your life? How do those images help you stand firm in the face of desperate situations?

David knew what was at stake, as indicated by the way he com-pared his enemies to wild animals who wanted to ✱ devour (Key Words Glossary, p. 160-161) his flesh. But instead of giving in to fear, he kept his focus on God’s protection.

What confidence does David’s attitude give you as you face fear in your life?

Our God is sovereign. He controls every instance of our lives. Nothing can thwart His plan. We can rest in that comfort. We can overcome fear by trusting that He is aware and active. With God at work, no believer is outnumbered—regardless of the enemy.

UNDER THE PROTECTION OF HIS PRESENCEPSALM 27:4-5

When you were a child, to whom did you turn when you felt scared or threatened? Why?

Thunderstorms. Scary movies. Strange noises. Things that go “bump” in the night. Every child has times of fear. Many times, the answer to those fears is just down the hall. Children need security —the kind of security provided by loving parents.

WITH CONFIDENCE IN THE LORD(Ps. 27:1-3)

UNDER THE PROTECTION OF HIS PRESENCE(Ps. 27:4-5)

FOCUS ON THE ETERNAL WITH JOY AND REJOICING (Ps. 27:6,14)

Focal Passage Outline

12 YOU YOU 13

I Don’t Want to Live Scared Psalm 27:1-6,14

I Don’t Want to Live Scared Psalm 27:1-6,14

Did you know?

SO WHAT? How does this apply to me?

David wasn’t the first godly leader to experience fear in the face of a difficult challenge. Joshua faced the challenge of leading the Israelites into the promised land. Moses was dead. The people were unreliable. Joshua wondered what he was supposed to do. God gave him a message similar to David’s word from the Lord in Psalm 27.

• Read Joshua 1:3-7. How did God tell Joshua to respond to his fears and questions?

• Read Joshua 1:8-9. Where did God want Joshua to find encouragement?

• Read Joshua 1:16-18. How did God affirm His words to Joshua?

Live It!Sometimes, our fears are easy to identify, and we even have names for them. We don’t like spiders (arachnophobia) or snakes (ophidiophobia). We are afraid of heights (acro-phobia) or confined spaces (claustrophobia). But other fears run much deeper, at-tacking us from the inside, forcing us to focus on what might be. Our imaginations run wild and rob our peace. But we serve a powerful, sov-ereign God. We can give our fears to Him.

This week, cut out a maga-zine picture that illustrates what scares you right now. Put it somewhere you will see it often. Every time you see it, quote this lesson’s Memory Verse (Ps. 27:1).

None of us like the feeling of fear. We don’t enjoy running scared. But as David’s example makes clear, believers don’t have to live that way. We can over-come our fears through our faith in God. We can celebrate our situation—not because it’s fun but because we know God is going to do an incredible work through our circumstances. We also have the promise of eternity. When we look at the big picture, it’s easier to understand David’s confidence: “Whom should I fear? ... Of whom should I be afraid?”

• When you think of courage, what individual from your life comes to mind? What lessons can you learn from that person’s example of dealing with fear?

• What is the “one thing” you desire in your life right now? Why?

• What does waiting on the Lord look like in your life these days? What makes it hard to wait on Him? What gives you the strength to wait on Him?

Read Psalm 27:4-5. David felt the same way. So he turned to his Heavenly Father for help. Personal, intimate time with God was a big deal for David. His public confidence in God was rooted in his private fellowship with the Father. That’s when he gained strength and guidance for the days ahead. In verse 4, David said that he really only wanted b one thing (Key Words, p. 11) out of life: To remain as close to God as possible. He wanted to seek God, to live in His presence, and to be overwhelmed with His beauty.

When was the last time you stopped to reflect on the beauty and glory of God? How did it affect your thoughts and your attitudes the rest of the day?

David’s desire to pursue the presence of God kept him under the protective hand of God. He was concealed by God’s shelter and hid-den within the c cover of His tent (Key Words, p. 11). He was totally surrounded by God.

The Lord also placed him high on a rock. For centuries military leaders have valued the high ground in a battlefield. From that position they can see the movements of the enemy better and can fire down on the opposing army from the security of the heights. In many cases battles were won or lost based on possession of the high ground. God had given David the high ground against his enemy.

Reflect on some “high ground” moments in your life. In what ways has God given you a secure place to rest during the difficult times of your life? How have you responded to those blessings?

FOCUS ON THE ETERNAL WITH JOY AND REJOICINGPSALM 27:6,14

Living in God’s presence and reflecting on God’s goodness had an un-usual effect on David. While his circumstances really hadn’t changed, his outlook underwent an amazing transformation. He claimed future victory and celebrated as if the battle had already been won.

Read Psalm 27:6,14. David chose to do the unthinkable by turning his oppression into an opportunity to celebrate. The comfort and confidence produced by the reality of God’s presence led David to worship with “shouts of joy.”

How should understanding God’s control over our situations affect the way we approach those situa-tions? Why would worship and joy be an appropriate response to difficult situations?

How do you feel about waiting? If you’re like most people, waiting doesn’t come naturally. In fact, human beings typically hate to d wait (Keys Word, p. 11). We have places to be and things to do. But in God’s economy, waiting is a big deal.

David’s intimate fellowship with God helped him understand—and act on—the importance of waiting on the Lord. He knew that rush-ing ahead of God’s plan was not the answer. God would move when the time was right in His plan, and David understood that the re-sults would be worth the wait. So he waited. And as David waited, he was determined to be ✱ strong and courageous (Key Words Glossary, pp. 160-161). While it doesn’t always make sense in our human minds, waiting on God to fight our battles represents the strongest and most courageous path we can take when we feel overwhelmed. We just need to get out of the way and let Him do His work. David’s response to fear and the threats of his enemies has relevance for us today—and for the future.

I Don’t Want to Live Scared Psalm 27:1-6,14

I Don’t Want to Live Scared Psalm 27:1-6,14

14 YOU YOU 15

DAILY READINGS3. WHATEVER HAPPENS

Philippians 4:10-11

You have to admit one thing about the film Forrest Gump: life really is like a box of chocolates. We never know what we’re going to get. But what

Forrest (or his mama) may not have realized is that we serve a God who knows exactly what we’re

going to get. He is sovereign, in control, and He’s ready to walk with us through every experience. Paul thanked the Philippians for their generosity but also reminded them that he was content in

every situation because God was with him. That’s a great reminder for us—no matter

what comes our way.

Lord, thanks for being with me at

every turn and for giving me the

help I need in every circumstance.

4. DO IT ALLPhilippians 4:13

As our kids grow up, we tell them they can be anything they want to be or do anything they want to do. That’s not exactly true. We all have

physical limitations that might keep us from doing some things and certain interests and abilities

that would make us more successful in some areas than in others. Paul told the Philippians that they could do anything through Christ. He was saying that they didn’t need to “do it all,” just what God led them to do. And He promised to strengthen

them to make it happen.

Jesus, I know I can’t do it all

but help me do what I’m supposed to

do to the best of my abilities.

2. THE WAITING GAMEPsalm 27:13-14

Members of the human race are excellent in so many areas. Artists and musicians, athletes and

business leaders amaze us. We’ve benefited from pastors and scientists. But, one skill still leaves

us confounded. We don’t wait very well. Ironically, as our technology has grown, so

has our impatience. We don’t like to wait! Yet that’s exactly what God expects from us. He wants us to wait on Him and His leading. Moving forward without Him only leads to

trouble. Like David in the wilderness, we need to learn the importance of waiting.

Father, I hate to wait, but what

You’re doing in me is worth

the wait. Help me be patient

and wait on You.

1. ONE THINGPsalm 27:1-6

Over five decades ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood in front a crowd in Washington, D.C.,

and told thousands about his dream of how things could be. It was a passion that kept him moving forward, even in the face of adversity and fear. Thousands of years earlier, a shepherd-turned-warrior named David wrote about his passion.

He wanted to know God better and to experience His presence more and more. His

dream was his “one thing” (v. 4). All of us have a “one thing” that keeps us going. What’s yours?

Lord, let me echo David’s

passion. Let my “one thing” be

focused on You.

LESSON PASSAGE

UNIT 1, LESSON 2

The Question: How can I live stable in an unstable economy?The Point: Maintain a generous and content heart.

Little or MuchBackground Passage: Philippians 4:10-19

Lesson Passage: Philippians 4:10-19

MEMORY VERSEPhilippians 4:19

And my God will supply all your needs according

to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

a Lacked the opportunity: Probably because Paul had encouraged them not to give toward His needs. He didn’t want his enemies to claim that he ministered only for his own benefit.

b Macedonia: Primarily today’s northern Greece and south-ern Bulgaria. God led Paul to bring the gospel to Macedo-nia, beginning at Philippi (see Acts 16:6-15).

c Profit: Paul said the Philip-pians would benefit from their gift to him.

d Riches in glory: The Bible reveals God as the Creator and Owner of everything (Ps. 24:1). He distributes resources as He sees fit (see Ps. 50:9-10).

The leader pages for this lesson are found on pages 106–109.

PHILIIPPIANS 4:10-19

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but a lacked the opportunity to show it. 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have ✱ learned to be con-tent in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being con-tent—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me. 14 Still, you did well by sharing with me in my hardship. 15 And you Philippians know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left b Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the c profit that is increasing to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from ✱ Epaphroditus what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His d riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

YOU 17

KEY WORDS

For more information about key words (✱), visit the glossary on pages 160-161.

16 YOU

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YOU OBJECT LESSON

REVIEW THE PREVIOUS UNIT.One of the keys to encouraging spiritual transformation is helping learners make connections between the Bible’s spiritual truths. Take some time before the lesson to review the unit of study you just completed. Identify some connections you can make between that unit and the unit you will be starting this week on social issues—especially today’s lesson on facing fear.

PREPARE YOUR SETTING.Many teachers don’t realize that their meeting space is an important part of their curriculum. While they focus on lessons and study guides, the atmosphere created by your room can be at-tractive to learners. Evaluate your meeting room to see if it presents a warm and welcoming environment. Discard outdated posters and other materials that detract from the atmosphere.

THINK ABOUT YOUR FEARS.This week’s lesson focuses on dealing with fear through the power and presence of God. Since you can’t encourage learners to go where you have not been, take some time to evaluate the things that frighten you. Consider your struggles and the circumstances in your life that leave you fearful. Also consider how God has helped you walk through your fears in the past.

LOOK BACK. Point out to learners that answering God’s call can put us in uncomfortable situations, some of which can lead to great fear in our lives. Explain that the first lesson of this unit will help learn-ers deal with their fears in a way that honors God. Encourage learners to confront their fears and to place all their trust in God’s power and presence as they move forward in their walk with Him.

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

STEP 4

I DON’T WANT TO LIVE SCARED (TEACHING PLAN)FOR UNIT 1, LESSON 1 (pp. 11–15)

INTRODUCTION Prior to the session, write the following question on the board: “What are some famous fads?” As learners arrive, begin sharing responses and record their answers on the board. Encourage learners to share how they were involved in some of the fads that made the list.

Encourage learners to list their favorite scary movies. Record their responses on the board. Direct a volunteer to read the introduction about scary movies on page 12. Point out that some movies scare us with horror, while others keep us on the edge of our seats with suspense. Ask: What makes scary movies so popular? Discuss responses. Point out that while we sometimes enjoy being scared at the movies, we also deal with very real fears that attack us each day.

Ask: Discuss responses. Affirm that these fears are much more serious than what we see in the movies because they are real, and they rob us of our peace and joy. Share that individuals try to deal with fears in many different ways—some healthy and some unhealthy. Emphasize that the best way to deal with fears is to face them with the power and presence of God. Explain that today’s lesson reveals how David relied on God to get him through some difficult circumstances. Challenge learners to identify and apply the same principles in their own lives.

• Ask: What are some facts we know about the life of David? (Examples: son of Jesse, anointed king as a boy, worked as a shepherd, defeated Goliath, ran for his life from Saul, became king, and so forth) Discuss responses. Use information from the Leader Commentary (p. 105) to explain that this psalm was probably written while David was hiding in the wilderness.

• Select a volunteer to read Psalm 27:1-3 and encourage the other learners to listen for the symbols David used to describe God. (Answers: a light,

salvation, and stronghold) Ask: If you were struggling with fear, how might seeing God in these ways provide comfort and encouragement? Discuss responses. Explain the significance of the terms using information from the Leader Commentary (p. 105).

• Ask: How did David see those attacking him? (like wild animals) Emphasize that he knew that his enemies were trying to destroy him, but he was confident God would defeat them.

WITH CONFIDENCE IN THE LORDPSALM 27:1-3

• Give each learner a sheet of paper and a pen or pencil to create a “bucket list.” Explain that a bucket list is simply a list of things they would like to do before they “kick the bucket.” Once they have finished their lists, say: If you could only accomplish one thing on that list, figure out what that would be and circle it. After a few minutes allow a few learners to share their b one thing. Read Psalm 27:4-5. Ask: Based on

these verses, what was the “one thing” David made a priority in his life? (experiencing the presence of God each day)

• Share that David’s personal relationship with God gave him strength and confidence needed to trust God—even when he was scared. Encourage learners to answer the second response question on page 14

UNDER THE PROTECTION OF HIS PRESENCEPSALM 27:4-5

BEFORE YOU TEACHFOR UNIT 1, LESSON 1 (pp. 11–15)

We ended last quarter with a unit on conduct, “For the Sake of the Call.” Our last session was “Guarding My Calling,” a study of Ephesians 5:15-21. Remind learners of The Question: “How

can I stay true to my calling?” And The Point: “I must be wise and careful in all things.” Invite participants to share their praises and thanksgiving to God for the calling He has placed on their lives (last week’s Live

It!). Read or say together last week’s Memory Verse, Ephesians 5:15.

NIGHT-LIGHTAsk: When you were younger, what were some things you were afraid of? Discuss responses and record them on the board. Ask: What are some ways children deal with their fears? If it’s not mentioned, point out that many people—children and adults—are afraid of the dark. Encourage learners to suggest some ways people deal with a fear of the dark. Show them the night-light you brought to the session. Ask: What kind of comfort can a night-light bring? Discuss responses. Explain that today’s lesson focuses on a different kind of fear—a fear of en-emies pressing in on our lives. Point out that David faced these struggles, but he also discovered a light that helped him through—the presence and power of God in his life.

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BACK

DIG INTO THE TEXT

104 YOU | LEADER PAGES LEADER PAGES | YOU 105

SO WHAT? HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO ME?

CLOSE THE SESSION

Need more commentary/articles to increase your understanding?Visit www.LifeWay.com/YOU.

I Don’t Want to Live Scared Lesson Passages: Psalm 27:1-6,14

The Question: How can I live in a terror-filled world?The Point: Trust God completely with our lives and future.

• Invite learners to identify some common times of celebration. (Examples: birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and holidays) Ask: Where would you place “times of fear” on your list of times we should celebrate? Why? Explain that David connected scary times with rejoicing. Direct a volunteer to read Psalm 27:6 and instruct learners to point out words or phrases that indicate David’s celebration.

• Ask: Why do you think he was able to celebrate even though he was afraid? Discuss responses.

• Read Psalm 27:14. Say: Something better is coming our way. Wait patiently for God to come and wipe out fear and injustice. Use the information in Did You Know? (p. 14) and Key Words (p. 11) to explain the term d be strong and courageous.

FOCUS ON THE ETERNAL WITH JOY AND REJOICINGPSALM 27:6,14

under “Under the Protection of His Presence.” Discuss how focusing on the true nature of God (beauty and power) can help us confront our fears. Use information

from the learner material (p. 14) and leader commen-tary (p. 105) to explain the importance of a tent in the ancient world, as well as being set “high on a rock.”

LEADER COMMENTARYUNIT 1, LESSON 1 (pp. 11–15)

This commentary is designed to help you think about the question, “How can I live in a terror-filled world?” and drive home this one truth: Trust God completely with our lives and future.

FOCUS ON THESE POINTS

With Confidence in the Lord (Ps. 27:1-3)David likely wrote the words to Psalm 27 while hiding

from King Saul and his army. Despite being hunted by the most powerful man in the kingdom, David was able to acknowledge and overcome his fears. In doing so, he provided a lesson about trusting God from which all believers can benefit.

David knew what was at stake, and he responded with complete confidence in God’s ability to protect him. David used three metaphors to describe God’s work. First, he said that God served as his light. This is the first time in Scripture “light” is used in connection with God. The image of light emphasizes God’s holi-ness and His truth. The image of light also stands in contrast to the power of darkness. While light brings joy and hope, darkness produces fear and confusion. God stands as a light in the middle of our darkest times. David also referred to God as his “salvation” and his “stronghold.” God served as his defense and his protection against the schemes of Saul or any other enemy who might attack him. What’s more, since God is our stronghold, our own personal weaknesses are of little consequence. His strength is revealed through our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9).

Just as the Lord had helped him defeat lions, bears, and giants, David knew that God would make his en-emies “stumble and fall.” Regardless of the army that came against him or the intensity of the battle around him, David determined to trust God.

Under the Protection of His Presence (Ps. 27:4-5)David’s main desire was to live in the presence of

God every moment. While he certainly understood that he would one day live in the eternal presence of God,

he also recognized the importance of daily fellowship with the Heavenly Father. He wanted God to rule over the day-to-day experiences of his life. David said that God “concealed me in His shelter” (v. 5). The image conveys the idea of an individual welcoming a guest into his tent. In the ancient Near East, a tent was a person’s home and refuge. It provided protection and shelter. More importantly for David, when a man shared his tent with a guest, the host was responsible for the security of the one who was “under his roof.” In that sense, living in God’s shelter—being a welcomed guest in His tent—meant that the Lord had taken full responsibility for David’s welfare. The future king had nothing to fear because he was living in the fortress of God Almighty.

David also noted that God had “set me high on a rock” (v. 5). When God placed David in a high place, He was putting him in a secure spot. Rather than strug-gling in the heat of the battle, David could stand above the fight and watch God deliver victory.

Every individual has a “one thing” that fuels his or her passions. For believers that priority should be a deeper relationship with God. Like David we should long to know Him better every day. In the New Testa-ment, Paul echoed this sentiment in Philippians 3:7-14. He “suffered the loss of all things” so he could know God better (v. 8). His goal was to know Christ—including His sufferings (v. 10).

Focus on the Eternal with Joy and Rejoicing (Ps. 27:6,14)

David did two things that seem unthinkable in the midst of fear. First, he turned his frightening circum-stances into an opportunity to celebrate (v. 6). He in-tentionally chose to worship God and to thank Him for the victory—even before the battle had begun. David also embraced the opportunity to wait on God (v. 14). By focusing on God’s presence and protection, David could afford to wait on God to work things out in His perfect timing. In time God fulfilled His promises to David because David was faithful during times of fear.

When I was a kid and had trouble sleeping because of fear, my mother would encourage me to quote Bible verses I had memorized. Even today I turn to Scripture when I’m feeling unsettled or afraid. Use this week’s Live It! activity to secure the lesson’s Memory Verse (Ps. 27:1) in your mind. Spend some time meditating on and memorizing the verses used in the Diggin’ Deeper activity as well. Then praise God for the way He rescues us—today and for eternity. Rely on the Scriptures—and the God who gave them to you—as you confront your fears this week. Close in prayer, asking God to help you embrace an eternal perspective.

I DON’T WANT TO LIVE SCARED (TEACHING PLAN)FOR UNIT 1, LESSON 1 (pp. 11–15)

Fears come in all shapes and sizes. To be human is to experience fear from time to time. But we have to re-member that courage isn’t really the absence of fear. It’s confronting fear head-on when it tries to attack us. As believers, we will face fear just like everyone else. But we have a God who is bigger than any fear, protecting us and fighting for us. That should give us the courage to stand even if we’re afraid.

• How have you tried to deal with fear in the past? How well did that work? How would trusting in God help you do a better job of standing during scary times?

• When have you chosen to worship God in the midst of fear and pain? How have you been able to use your experiences to encourage others?

• What does waiting on the Lord look like in your life these days? What makes it hard to wait on Him? What gives you the strength to wait on Him?

UNDER THE PROTECTION OF HIS PRESENCE (CONT.)