Youth Sermon: Flip The Script

Introduction

Let's talk about something real. You know how we sometimes get stuck in our heads, replaying the same old stories? Like that time you messed up in front of everyone, or when you didn't make the team, or when you felt like you didn't fit in. We all have those stories, right? But here's the thing, those stories don't define us.

Let's do a little experiment. I have here a glass of water. Now, if I hold this glass for a minute, it's not a big deal. But if I hold it for an hour, my arm will start to ache. And if I hold it all day, you'd have to call an ambulance. The weight of the glass doesn't change, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it feels. That's like our negative thoughts. The longer we hold onto them, the heavier they become.

The longer we hold onto our negative thoughts, the heavier they become.

Flipping the Script

Remember Joseph from the Bible? His brothers sold him into slavery, but he didn't let that define him. Instead, he chose to see the good in his situation. He became a powerful man in Egypt and even saved his family from famine. He flipped the script.

So, how do we flip our script? First, we need to know who we really are. Not what others say about us, but what God says. God says we're blessed, chosen, blameless, adopted, redeemed, sealed, and stamped with His image. That's some pretty awesome stuff, right?

Next, we need to change our focus. Instead of dwelling on the negative, let's focus on the good stuff. Things that are pure, just, and admirable. Practice gratitude. Change your environment. Read the Bible. It's like the ultimate old book with a God's-eye view.

Finally, let's try to be more like Jesus. He's the ultimate role model. By following His example, we can develop habits that align with His teachings. This is what discipleship is all about.

Practical Application

So, here's the practical bit. This week, every time a negative thought pops into your head, imagine it's this glass of water. Don't hold onto it. Put it down. Replace it with a positive thought. Remember who you are in Christ. Focus on the good. Be like Jesus.

Prayer

Let's pray. God, help us to flip the script. To see ourselves as You see us. To focus on the good. To be more like Jesus. Amen.

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. What is one negative thought you often have about yourself? How can you change that thought into a positive one?

2. How does knowing your identity in Christ change the way you see yourself?

3. What is one way you can imitate Jesus in your daily life?

4. How can focusing on the positive change your story?

5. Share one thing you are grateful for today.

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Identity Charades
• Group Activity: Scripture Scavenger Hunt
• Youth Challenge: Gratitude Journal Challenge