Youth Sermon: A Day for Remembering (Thanksgiving)

Introduction

What is your favorite part about Thanksgiving? (give time for the students to raise their hands and tell you what they love about Thanksgiving).

Absolutely, Thanksgiving is a day when we stuff our faces with turkey and pumpkin pie.

But, it's more than just a food fest. It's a day to remember and be grateful for all the cool stuff God has done for us.

It's a day to remember and be grateful for all the cool stuff God has done for us.

Bible Verses

Let's look at some verses from the Bible. Deuteronomy 8:10-18, Philippians 4:4-7, and Ephesians 2:6-9.

(Ask students to locate and read out loud each of the verses above).

These verses remind us to be thankful and to remember all the good things God has done for us.

What to Remember This Thanksgiving

1) Remember God's amazing grace.

You know how sometimes you mess up, but your parents still love you? That's a bit like God's grace. He loves us even when we mess up. He even sent Jesus to die for us while we were still messing up. That's pretty amazing, right? So, this Thanksgiving, let's remember God's amazing grace.

2) Remember God's provision for you.

Ever been in a tough spot? Like when you forgot to study for a test, but somehow still managed to pass? That's God looking out for you. Just like He looked out for the Israelites in the desert, giving them food when there was none. He's got your back too.

3) Remember that God is your Source, even when things are going great.

When you're acing your classes, making the team, or just having a great day, remember who's behind all that. God is the one blessing you. So, even when life's a breeze, remember to thank God for His blessings.

Sharing the Blessings

Now, let's do something fun. Imagine you're holding a big, shiny apple. That apple represents all the good things in your life. Now, imagine giving that apple to someone else. That's what Thanksgiving is about. Sharing the good things God has given us.

So, this Thanksgiving, let's do two things.

First, let's have fun. Celebrate and enjoy the day. Second, let's share our blessings. Invite a friend over for dinner, or help out at a food bank. Let's make sure everyone gets a piece of the apple.

Prayer

Let's pray: "Dear God, thank you for all the good things you've given us. Help us remember your grace, your provision, and your blessings. And help us share these blessings with others. Amen."

So, this Thanksgiving, let's remember, be grateful, and share. Sounds like a plan, right?

Small Group Breakout Questions

1) What is one thing you are thankful for and why?

2) How has God shown His grace in your life?

3) Can you recall a time when you felt God's provision in a difficult situation?

4) How can you remember to thank God even in times of plenty?

5) Who can you invite to share in your blessings this week?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Memory Lane
• Group Activity: Thanksgiving Mural
• Youth Challenge: Gratitude Challenge