Youth Sermon: Rewired by Christ

Introduction

Today, we're going to talk about how we can overcome temptations and challenges in our lives. You know, sometimes it feels like our lives are a tangled mess, like these wires here. But the good news is that Jesus can help us untangle and rewire our lives for victory.

Jesus can help us untangle and rewire our lives for victory.

Jesus' Temptation

In Matthew 4:1-11, we read about Jesus being tempted by the devil three times. Each time, Jesus overcame the temptation by using Scripture, trusting in God, and having self-control. These are the same tools we can use to overcome the challenges and temptations we face in our lives.

Practical Steps to Overcome Temptations

1. Know the Scripture: Just like Jesus, we can use Scripture to help us when we're facing temptations. Spend time reading and memorizing Bible verses that speak to the challenges you're facing. When you're tempted, remember those verses and use them to help you stay strong.

2. Trust in God: Jesus trusted in God to help Him overcome temptation, and we can do the same. When you're facing a challenge, pray and ask God for help. Trust that He is with you and will give you the strength you need to overcome.

3. Practice self-control: Jesus showed self-control when He faced temptation, and we can learn to do the same. Try using techniques like 'urge-surfing' (identify the physical sensation, focus on that, notice breathing, refocus on body, and stay curious and present) and the '10-10-10 Rule' (how will I feel in: 10 minutes, 10 months, 10 years) to help you resist temptation and make better choices.

Conclusion

As we practice these steps, our lives will become more like Jesus' – distinctive and intriguing. We'll be able to overcome common hardships and temptations in a way that gives hope to others.

Prayer

Let's pray together: 'Lord, thank you for showing us how to overcome temptation and challenges in our lives. Help us to know your Scripture, trust in you, and practice self-control. We want our lives to be distinctive and intriguing, just like Jesus'. In your name, we pray. Amen.'

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. What are some common temptations or challenges that you face in your daily life?

2. How can using scripture help you overcome these temptations or challenges?

3. How does relational trust in God play a role in overcoming temptations or challenges?

4. Can you think of a time when you used self-control to overcome a temptation or challenge? Share your experience with the group.

5. How can we support each other in overcoming temptations and challenges in our lives?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Overcoming Temptations and Hardships
• Group Activity: Temptation Obstacle Course
• Youth Challenge: Practice Urge-Surfing and the 10-10-10 Rule.