AY Program Idea: How to remain FAITHFUL in the hour of trial?

How can we remain faithful in our hour of trial?

“O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”—Matthew 26:39

Darkness pressed upon His soul with almost unbearable agony, and again He felt a longing for companionship, for some words which would bring relief, and break the spell of darkness that well-nigh overpowered Him. “And He came and found them asleep again; for their eyes were heavy;” “neither wist they what to answer him.” They saw His face marked with the bloody sweat of agony, and they were filled with sorrow; for “His visage was so marred, more than any man.”

Again Christ went away, and prayed that if it were possible this cup might pass from Him. His soul was filled with an overpowering fear of separation from God in consequence of sin. Satan told Him that if He became the substitute and surety for a sinful world, He would nevermore be one with God, but would be under his control.

Three times the prayer ascended to God, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me,” always followed by the words, “Not My will, but Thine, be done.”

Shall the cup pass from the Suffering One? Shall the sacrifice of Christ, ordained before the foundation of the world, and symbolized in every sacrifice offered since Adam’s transgression, be given up? … Shall that which angels eagerly desired to look into and understand, that which had been the burden of prophecy, that which lay at the foundation of types and shadows, fail after all, leaving Satan and his apostate forces and confederacy of evil to come off triumphant?

O, how much Christ had already suffered as the Son of man, in order to redeem and save men and women!—The Signs of the Times, June 3, 1897.

 In every consequential moment when humanity’s fate hung in the balance, Jesus made the right decision. How can we remain faithful in our hour of trial?

Activity/Group Discussion Questions:

1. How does the Bible define and describe trials, and what insights does it offer on how to navigate them?
2. In what ways do biblical figures exemplify faithfulness in the midst of trials? (Consider characters like Daniel, Joseph, or Paul)
3. According to the Scriptures, what is the purpose of trials in the life of a believer? (See James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 4:12-13)
4. How can trials be opportunities for spiritual growth and development?
5. How does prayer contribute to our ability to remain faithful during challenging times? (Reference Philippians 4:6-7)
6. Share personal experiences or stories of how prayer has impacted your resilience in trials.
7. How can regular study of the Bible help strengthen our faith and provide guidance in times of trial? (Explore Psalm 119:105)
8. Share specific verses or passages that have been particularly encouraging during difficult moments.
9. Discuss practical ways to stay faithful in the midst of trials. How can we actively apply the principles of the armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-18?
10. Share personal strategies or tips that have helped you or others in the group remain faithful during challenging times.
11. How can we, as a community of Seventh-day Adventist youth, support and encourage each other during trials?
12. How can the experiences of trials contribute to our personal and collective spiritual journey?
13. In what ways can we prepare ourselves and our peers for potential trials that may come in the future?

Highlights/Conclusion:

James 1:2-4 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

1 Peter 4:12-13 – “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”

“Trials and obstacles are His chosen methods of discipline and His appointed conditions of success.” (Education, p. 152)

“God has not promised His people exemption from trials, but has promised to be with them in them.” (Selected Messages, Book 2, p. 315)

Revelation 2:10 – “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”

1 Corinthians 16:13 – “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”

The youth who, in this life, choose to obey God’s law will be counted as worthy individuals who will have the privilege to enjoy immortal life in the hereafter. This is a remarkable promise that brings hope and encouragement to those who strive to live in accordance with divine principles.

By adhering to God’s law, the youth develop a strong moral compass and receive guidance on how to navigate the complexities of life. They learn the values of honesty, integrity, compassion, and love, which not only benefit them personally but also contribute to the betterment of society.

In a world filled with distractions and temptations, it can be challenging for young people to resist peer pressure and follow their convictions. However, those who remain steadfast in their faith and live in harmony with God’s teachings are promised the ultimate reward: eternal life.

In a world that often values instant gratification and material success, embracing the idea of immortal life can provide a sense of purpose and meaning. It reminds the youth that their choices and actions extend beyond the confines of this earthly existence and have implications for their eternal destiny.

We are nearing the close of this earth’s history, and the different lines of God’s work are to be carried forward with much more self-sacrifice than our people have yet manifested.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 429)

Faithfulness is an important virtue encouraged in the Bible. Here are some strategies rooted in biblical teachings to cultivate faithfulness in our life:

1. Seek God’s Guidance: Regularly seek God’s guidance through prayer and meditation. Ask for wisdom and strength to remain faithful in all areas of your life. Philippians 4:6-7. Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend.
2. Study the Scriptures: Spend time studying and meditating on the Word of God. By understanding and applying biblical principles, you can develop a solid foundation for faithfulness.
3. Surround Yourself with Like-minded Believers: Fellowship with other believers who are also committed to living faithfully. Join a supportive church community, engage in small group Bible studies, and seek accountability partners.
4. Trust in God’s Promises: Remind yourself of God’s faithfulness throughout history as recorded in the Bible. Trust in His promises that He will never leave nor forsake you, even in challenging times.
5. Obey God’s Commandments: Align your actions with God’s commandments. Obey His instructions, walk in His ways, and strive to live a life that honors Him.
6. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a heart of gratitude for the blessings God has bestowed upon you. Recognize and appreciate His faithfulness in your life, both big and small.
7. Persevere in Trials: When faced with trials and challenges, lean on God’s strength and remain steadfast in your faith. Trust that God is working all things together for your good and His glory.
8. The Armor of God – Ephesians 6:10-18

Remember, faithfulness is a lifelong journey. By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you can grow in your faithfulness to God and others.

Let all, who would be fortified against the temptations of the enemy, keep the windows of the soul closed earthward and opened heavenward.” (The Great Controversy, p. 519)

As we navigate the trials of life, let us remember the promise of God’s presence in our struggles. By clinging to faith, anchored in prayer, and wearing the armor of God, we can stand firm and be faithful witnesses in the hour of trial. May the Holy Spirit empower each one of us to endure and overcome, for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom. Amen.

Short Sermon: Serving The Lord Heartily

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:23

In this verse, the Apostle Paul reminds us that our service is not merely for the approval of others, but should be a heartfelt offering to the Lord. As Seventh-day Adventist youth, our service is not a duty but a joy, an expression of our love for the One who first loved us.

There is science in the humblest kind of work, and if all would thus regard it, they would see nobility in labor. Heart and soul are to be put into work of any kind; then there is cheerfulness and efficiency.

“The life of Christ from His earliest years was a life of earnest activity. He lived not to please Himself. He was the Son of the infinite God, yet He worked at the carpenter’s trade with His father Joseph.

His trade was significant. He worked at a handicraft, and from the things of His created world He drew illustrations for His teachings. Thus, He showed the importance of industry and the necessity of using the opportunities and privileges that God has given us in this world.”

“Whatever the line of work in which we engage, there is opportunity for revealing to others the spirit of helpfulness. We should be ready to do kind deeds, to speak sympathetic words. Such work is a savor of life unto life. It is the outworking of a love that glorifies God.”

In agricultural and mechanical occupations, men may give evidence to God that they appreciate His gift in the physical powers, and the mental faculties as well. Let the educated ability be employed in devising improved methods of work. Go beyond the ordinary and embrace a spirit of helpfulness in all that we do. Our actions should be a testimony to the transformative power of God’s love.

In our daily activities, whether big or small, we are called to glorify God. Our commitment to excellence reflects the character of the God we serve.

This is just what the Lord wants. There is honor in any class of work that is essential to be done….

“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength” (Mark 12:30).

God desires the love that is expressed in heart service, in soul service, in the service of the physical powers.

We are not to be dwarfed in any kind of service for God. Whatever He has lent us is to be used intelligently for Him….

It is the duty of every worker not merely to give his strength but his mind and intellect to that which he undertakes to do…. You can choose to become stereotyped in a wrong course of action because you have not the determination to take yourselves in hand and reform, or you may cultivate your powers to do the very best kind of service, and then you will find yourselves in demand anywhere and everywhere.

You will be appreciated for all that you are worth. “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10). “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord” (Romans 12:11).

Galatians 6:9 (NKJV) “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

Serving the Lord heartily requires perseverance. There will be challenges and moments of weariness, but the promise is that our efforts will bear fruit in due time.

“The work is laid out before every soul that believes in Christ. It is a great mistake for any to measure themselves by themselves or by one another. It is a great mistake for any to think themselves capable of doing the greatest work in the world. Before angels and men, finite and infinite, fall upon your knees in the humility of genuine contrition, seeking the Lord most earnestly.” Steps to Christ, p. 119.1

Let us remember that serving the Lord heartily is a privilege and a divine calling. Let our service be marked by the joy of the Lord, the pursuit of excellence, and unwavering perseverance. As we go forth, let our lives be a living testimony to the transforming power of Christ in us. Amen.

AY Program Idea: The Will is the Deciding Power

Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2.

There is nothing that can keep you away from God but a rebellious will.

The will is the governing power in the nature of man. If the will is set right, all the rest of the being will come under its sway. The will is not the taste or the inclination, but it is the choice, the deciding power, the kingly power, which works in the children of men unto obedience to God or to disobedience.

You will be in constant peril until you understand the true force of the will. You may believe and promise all things, but your promises and your faith are of no account until you put your will on the right side. If you will fight the fight of faith with your will power, there is no doubt that you will conquer.

Your part is to put your will on the side of Christ. When you yield your will to His, He immediately takes possession of you, and works in you to will and to do of His good pleasure. Your nature is brought under the control of His Spirit. Even your thoughts are subject to Him. If you cannot control your impulses, your emotions, as you may desire, you can control the will, and thus an entire change will be wrought in your life. When you yield up your will to Christ, your life is hid with Christ in God. It is allied to the power which is above all principalities and powers. You have a strength from God that holds you fast to His strength; and a new life, even the life of faith, is possible to you.

You can never be successful in elevating yourself, unless your will is on the side of Christ, cooperating with the Spirit of God. Do not feel that you cannot; but say, “I can, I will.” And God has pledged His Holy Spirit to help you in every decided effort.

Activity/Group Discussion:

• How does the concept of not being conformed to the world but being transformed by the renewing of the mind relate to our daily lives as SDA youth?
• In what practical ways can we renew our minds to align with the will of God?
• What is the significance of the will in the nature of man?
• How does the will act as the governing power and deciding factor in choosing obedience to God or disobedience?
• A rebellious will is what keeps us away from God. How have you experienced the impact of your will in your spiritual journey?
• Can you share examples of how a rebellious will might hinder spiritual growth and victory in the Christian walk?
• What does it mean to “fight the fight of faith with your will power,” as mentioned in the sermon?
• Can you think of personal experiences where relying on your will power played a significant role in overcoming challenges in your faith?
• How can we practically yield our will to Christ in our daily lives?
• In what ways does surrendering our will to Christ lead to a transformative and victorious Christian life?
• How does the Holy Spirit help us in our efforts to align our will with Christ’s?
• Can you share personal experiences of relying on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in making decisions that align with God’s will?
• The sermon emphasizes the importance of the will cooperating with the Spirit of God. How do you understand this cooperation in the context of your Christian journey?
• What challenges do you face in aligning your will with God’s will, and how can the group support one another in overcoming these challenges?
• How do declarations like “I can, I will” reflect a mindset of victory in the Christian journey?
• Can you share personal examples or instances where a positive declaration empowered you to overcome challenges in your faith?
• The sermon mentions that self-elevation is only successful when the will is on the side of Christ. What practical steps can we take to ensure our will is aligned with Christ for our personal growth?

Highlights/Conclusion:

In the culmination of our reflections on Romans 12:2 and the insightful guidance provided in the excerpts, we are reminded of the profound truth that our will plays a pivotal role in our spiritual journey. The apostle Paul’s admonition to “be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” echoes with timeless relevance. The call to resist conformity to the world’s patterns, driven by a rebellious will, resounds across the ages as a cautionary beacon for every earnest seeker of God.

The words penned in the writings of Sis. Ellen White and the Bible, underscore the undeniable influence of the will as the governing power in the human nature. It is the decisive force that directs the course of our lives, either towards obedience to God or disobedience. The call to understand the true force of the will is a clarion call to self-awareness and intentional living. The will, when rightly aligned, exerts a transformative influence over the entire being, bringing it under the sway of God’s purpose and design.

The emphasis on the necessity of putting our will on the side of Christ is both an invitation and a challenge. It’s an invitation to yield our stubborn wills to the perfect will of our Savior, allowing Him to take possession and work within us. Simultaneously, it’s a challenge to recognize the governing power we possess and to consciously choose the path of righteousness. The assurance is given that, with a resolute fight of faith using our willpower, victory is not only possible but inevitable.

The imagery of yielding our will to Christ is powerful. It signifies a surrender that goes beyond mere belief and promises – it is a yielding that allows Christ to take dominion over our entire being. In this surrender, a divine partnership is formed, and a transformative process begins. Our nature, thoughts, impulses, and emotions are brought under the benevolent control of the Holy Spirit.

The final exhortation to declare, “I can, I will,” resonates with a spirit of determination and faith. It is an affirmation that, with the aid of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome the constant peril of a rebellious will. This declaration encapsulates the essence of the sermon – a call to proactive, intentional discipleship. The promise of divine assistance in every decided effort is a beacon of hope, assuring us that our efforts to align our will with Christ’s will are not in vain.

As we conclude, let us embrace the transformative power of a yielded will. May we be inspired to declare, “I can, I will,” trusting in the pledge of God’s Holy Spirit to assist us in every step of our journey. In the renewing of our minds and the alignment of our will with Christ’s, we find the path to proving the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God.

A Happy Walk with Jesus

And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him. Genesis 5:24.

Enoch lived in a corrupt age, when moral power was very weak. Pollution was teeming all around him, yet he walked with God. He educated his mind to devotion—to think on things that were pure and holy; and his conversation was upon holy and divine things. He was made a companion of God. He walked with Him, and received His counsel. He had to contend with the same temptations that we do.

The society surrounding him was no more friendly to righteousness than is the society surrounding us at the present time. The atmosphere he breathed was tainted with sin and corruption, the same as ours, yet he was unsullied with the prevailing sins of the age in which he lived. And so may we remain as pure and uncorrupted as did the faithful Enoch.^{The Review and Herald, August 23, 1881.}

Enoch’s faithfulness in the face of a morally decadent society serves as a powerful example for today’s youth. In a world where values may seem to be shifting away from godliness, the challenges to uphold one’s faith can be daunting. Yet, Enoch’s commitment to walking with God in the midst of ungodliness demonstrates that it is possible to remain steadfast despite the prevailing culture.

Stay anchored in your faith, even when societal norms may conflict with biblical principles. Emphasize the importance of standing firm in one’s convictions, relying on the strength that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:1-5: “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”

We are living in an age when wickedness prevails. The perils of the last days thicken around us, and because iniquity abounds, the love of many waxes cold…. The shortness of time is urged as an incentive for us to seek righteousness and to make Christ our friend. This is not the great motive. It savors of selfishness. Is it necessary that the terrors of the day of God be held before us to compel us through fear to right action?

This ought not to be. Jesus is attractive. He is full of love, mercy, and compassion. He proposes to be our friend, to walk with us through all the rough pathways of life. He says to you, I am the Lord thy God; walk with Me, and I will fill thy path with light.

The foundation of a happy walk with Jesus begins with the cultivation of a personal relationship with our Saviour. This relationship is not merely a set of religious rituals, but a dynamic, living connection that grows through intentional communication with God. The Bible serves as our guidebook, providing insights into the character of God, His will for our lives, and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.

Set aside dedicated time for prayer and Bible study daily. This is not about a rigid routine, but a genuine desire to know Jesus intimately. Through prayer, we express our thoughts, concerns, gratitude, and seek His guidance. Studying the Bible allows us to understand His teachings, promises, and the principles that govern a Christ-centered life.

Today’s youth encounter a myriad of challenges – peer pressure, moral dilemmas, academic stress, and societal expectations. A steadfast walk with Jesus provides a solid foundation for navigating these challenges. By mirroring Enoch’s commitment to God, the youth can find guidance and strength in their daily lives.

View these challenges as opportunities for growth and deepening their faith. Seeking Jesus’ guidance in all aspects of life, trusting that His wisdom and strength can overcome any obstacle. Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

The journey of faith involves trials and temptations, but it is through these challenges that one’s faith is refined and strengthened. 1 Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

Walking with Jesus is not confined to a specific time or place; it is a lifestyle that involves a continuous awareness of God’s presence. This means seeking His guidance in all areas of our lives, whether big or small. When faced with decisions, challenges, or even moments of joy, we involve God in the process, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His will.

The promise of Jesus’ constant presence brings comfort and assurance. By walking with Jesus, the youth can face challenges with confidence, knowing that they are not alone in their journey of faith.

• Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
• James 4:7-8: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God, and he will come near to you.”
• Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Jesus, the Majesty of heaven, proposes to elevate to companionship with Himself those who come to Him with their burdens, their weaknesses, and their cares. He will make them His dear children, and finally give them an inheritance of more value than the empires of kings, a crown of glory richer than has ever decked the brow of the most exalted earthly monarch….

Hebrews 11:5: “By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: ‘He could not be found because God had taken him away.’ For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.”

Walking with Jesus brings joy that surpasses worldly happiness. The fulfillment derived from a relationship with God extends beyond temporal circumstances and provides a deep-seated sense of purpose and contentment.

Psalm 16:11: “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

The promise of eternal happiness is the culmination of a life lived in faithful obedience to God. It is the assurance that, beyond the challenges and joys of this world, an eternity with Jesus awaits those who persevere in their walk with Him.

It is our privilege to have a calm, close, happy walk with Jesus every day we live.