Youth Sermon: Gather for Strength

Proverbs 14:4

Today, I've got a cool story for you. It's called 'The Bundle of Sticks.' It's a simple story, but it's got a big message: we're stronger together than we are alone.

You know in Proverbs 14:4, it says that when there are no oxen, the manger is empty. But from the strength of an ox comes abundant harvests. It's like when you're trying to clean up after a big party. It's a mess, right? But when everyone chips in, the job gets done faster. That's what it's like when we work together for God's kingdom.

We're stronger together than we are alone.

1 Peter 5:8

1 Peter 5:8 warns us to stay alert because the devil is like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. When we're alone, we're easy targets. But when we're together, we're stronger and safer.

Ecclesiastes 4:12

Ecclesiastes 4:12 tells us that two are better than one because they can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken. This means that together, we can face challenges and support each other.

Imagine you're playing a game of tug-of-war. If you're pulling the rope alone against a team, you're going to lose, right? But if you have a team pulling with you, you've got a fighting chance. That's what it's like when we stick together. We're stronger and can face anything that comes our way.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

In Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, it says that two are better than one because they can help each other up when one falls. We all have tough times, and it's okay to ask for help. Today, let's think about how we can lift each other up, whether it's through prayer, helping out, or just being there for each other.

Prayer

God, remind us that we're stronger together. Help us to always be ready to support and encourage each other as we go through life. Amen.

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. Why do you think we are stronger together than alone?

2. Can you share a time when you felt stronger because of the support of others?

3. How can we better support each other in our group?

4. What are some practical ways we can lift each other up this week?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: The Bundle of Sticks
• Group Activity: Strength in Numbers
• Youth Challenge: Lift Each Other Up