Teen Trends
The Pew Research Center has done some research on the effects that the pandemic has had on people. One of their findings was that 86% of people believe that there is a lesson for mankind amidst the Coronavirus pandemic. Also, 35% of people specifically think that God is trying to teach us a lesson. This shows that people are currently seeking answers. Some people know that God is The answer, but not everyone knows this. There has hardly been a better time to reach out to people. Take advantage of this time, and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you where your hope is found.
Worship Song of the Week
Kari Jobe's just released a new live album called The Blessing. The album's main song is her incredibly popular worship song that the album is named after, but there are also many other songs on the album. Some of the other songs include Heaven Invade, No Fear, and Embers. This album has been three years in the making, making it all the more amazing that it is being released now amidst all of the ongoing chaos.
Game of the Week
If you're looking for a quick game that doesn't require any setup, then Birdie on a Perch is perfect. There are many variations of this game, but one of the most common version involves having everyone find a partner. Then, designate one person to be the "birdie" and another person to be a "perch." Then, have all of the birdies circle up and have all of the perches circle up around them. Have one circle walk clockwise, and the other circle walk counter-clockwise. While the groups are circling, have some music playing, and when you choose to stop it, the birdies must jump on the perchs' backs. The last birdie and perch to complete this task are eliminated each round.
Sermon Illustration
There might be something to learn from the Giant Sequoia tree and its seeds regarding hardships and resilience. Did you know that "Giant sequoia depend on fire to reproduce? The heat opens their seed cones, their seeds are released, the flames clear the earth for their germinations..." Also, "While lesser trees blaze around them, the giant sequoias stand virtually unscathed by the flames. They're remarkably fire-resistant." (National Geographic) As you reflect on James 1:12 below, there are some rich applications to the analogy above about how life, discipleship, transformation of people, and evidence of strength can be direct effects of "fires" or hardships that come into our lives.
Encouraging Thought
James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." This verse is encouraging because this season has been extremely exhausting, and there has been no break. Whether it's your job, school, issues at home, or friend drama, just keep going. God will reward you for staying true to him throughout the struggles.
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The vision of the Student Leader Weekly is to empower high schoolers (alongside adult leadership) with practical ministry ideas.