We believe to have a lasting impact and reach this next generation is to see the light of the church be combined with the heart of the family. We desire to continually grow as a ministry in our partnership with parents. There is great power in a parent who raises up a child spiritually, and we want you to know you don’t have to do it alone. The Parent Cue is one way to come alongside your teen in what they are learning.

Friday, February 19, 2016

Series: CHOOSE JOY (Feb. 24th - March 16th)


We live in a world that spends the majority of its time focusing on things that will make them happy. This study will help students to gain a firm understanding of what joy is and where it comes from. It will help them discover that God wants us to have joy and not just live a life looking for happiness. This study will also help students gain the knowledge of how live a life of joy each day. It will also help them learn how to be content in life no matter what comes their way.

Session 1 Real Joy | Proverbs 14:13; 1 Peter 1:3-9; Galatians 5:22-23 (2/24/16)
Joy and happiness are two different things. Happiness is based on things we do or things we receive. Happiness can come and go depending on what we are pursuing at that moment. Joy is internal. Real joy—true joy—can only come from one source and His name is Jesus. When Christ comes in and is a part of your life, He becomes your Source of joy. Joy becomes a part of our character as a believer. Joy is being able to look beyond the moment, even if it is bad, and know that it is going to be OK because of your relationship with Jesus. How would you describe the difference between joy and happiness?

Session 2 Joy and Contentment | Philippians 4:10-20 (3/2/16)
While happiness is based on circumstances, joy and contentment are not. Being content means that all of your needs have been met in Christ Jesus. Joy and contentment are found solely in the power of Christ. We experience frustration and dissatisfaction in life when we try to do things in our own power. Knowing that God will provide for our every need brings joy and contentment. Learning to live a life where our only desire is to know Christ more is the key to finding and keeping joy and contentment. What would you say your contentment level is?

Session 3 Joy in Tough Times | James 1:2-4 (3/9/16)
It is a fact of life that you will experience trials in your life. Trials are not the same as temptations. Trials provide an opportunity for us grow in our faith and relationship with God; temptations are intended to break our fellowship with God. When we face trials, we are still to maintain joy in our lives. Trials provide the opportunity for God to display His greatness to others as you lean on Him to get you through. When you have walked through a trial, it is then that you are able to look back and discover just much you have grown as a result of the trial.

Session 4 Take a Look Around | Romans 5:11; Proverbs 17:22; Psalm 118:24 (3/16/16)
Because of our salvation in Christ, we are able to rejoice in Him because of what He has done for us. Coming to Jesus and the change that He brings should cause us to rejoice. Studies have shown that those who have joy in their lives live longer and more productive lives. Living a life of joy causes people to want to be around you more. Every day is a new day that God gives us the chance to be joyful. We don’t have to look very far each day to discover something to be joyful about.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCE
Parenting Teens is a monthly magazine designed to provide relevant information, practical ideas, and biblical encouragement to parents of teenagers. Go to www.lifeway.com/parenting teens