Faith and Doubt

Discussion Questions:

• What is faith, and how can we know if we have it?
• How do I handle doubt when I'm not sure about something?
• Can you think of a time when you had strong faith, but then doubted? How did you overcome your doubts?
• How does God's Word help us navigate our emotions during times of uncertainty?

Lesson Plan:

1. Introduction (10 minutes) Begin by asking the teens if they've ever experienced doubt or felt uncertain about something. Encourage them to share their experiences, and listen attentively. As we discuss these complex emotions, remember that faith and doubt are natural parts of our spiritual journey.
2. What is Faith? (15 minutes) Explain what faith means in the context of our relationship with God. Discuss how faith involves trusting God's goodness, sovereignty, and love, even when we don't understand everything. Share Hebrews 11:1, which says: "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Emphasize that faith is not just a feeling, but a choice to trust God, even when our emotions are uncertain.
3. Doubt: Friend or Foe? (15 minutes) Discuss how doubt can be both a natural response to uncertainty and a potential hindrance to our walk with God. Explore Psalm 73:22-23, which says: "Yet I am like an ostrich—a bird that has lost its way and is out of breath. My feet move swiftly, yet my heart is weak—and the Lord keeps me safe!" Explain how doubt can be a natural part of our journey, but it's essential to distinguish between healthy self-doubt and unhealthy doubt.
4. Navigating Doubt (20 minutes) Share personal anecdotes or examples from Scripture where characters struggled with doubt, such as Peter in Matthew 14:31 or Jonah in Jonah 1-2. Ask the teens to share how they handle doubt in their lives. Encourage them to consider the following strategies: - Ask God for clarity and guidance - Seek support from trusted friends, family, or mentors - Focus on God's Word and the promises He has given us - Practice self-care and prioritize their emotional well-being
5. Conclusion (10 minutes) Gather the teens together and summarize the key points discussed. Remind them that faith and doubt are natural parts of our spiritual journey, but it's essential to navigate these emotions in a way that honors God. Encourage them to share one thing they've learned or taken away from the lesson. Provide time for prayer and reflection.

Assessment:

• Observe teens' participation during the discussion.
• Ask follow-up questions throughout the lesson to assess their understanding.
• Collect written reflections or thoughts on how faith and doubt relate to God's Word.

Extension:

• Plan a "Faith and Doubt" journaling activity where teens write about their experiences with uncertainty and how they've navigated those emotions.
• Invite a guest speaker who has struggled with doubt to share their testimony and insights.
• Create a "Faith and Doubt" discussion group for the coming weeks, where teens can continue exploring these complex emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before You today acknowledging our doubts and uncertainties. Help us to navigate these emotions with wisdom and faith, trusting in Your goodness and love. Give us the courage to ask questions, seek clarity, and find comfort in Your Word.

Amen!