When we trust Jesus, we won’t desire to look like the world.

SCRIPTURE | 1 Samuel 8:1-21

CENTRAL TRUTH

Our “kings” don’t wear crowns; instead, they look more like money, material possessions, and influence. We all serve something or someone. The difference between serving the things of this world and serving Jesus is clear: serving the world leads to enslavement and disappointment while serving Jesus leads to freedom, purpose, and everlasting peace.

Key question

Why would God allow Israel to have a king if it wasn’t good for the people?

Keep in Mind

We must validate for our students that the things of this world—success, fame, money, material possessions—are appealing to our flesh. Sin is enticing. Because we were born into a fallen world where sin is prevalent, we are susceptible to sinful desires. We’re susceptible to the same lie the serpent used to deceive Adam and Eve: “Did God actually say . . . ?” (Gen. 3:1). In our weakness, we desire the things we see in the world around us and we justify what we do to get them. We look at the way unbelievers live, and because the world tells us it’s more fun, we imitate them. But God’s Word is clear: The things of this world are fading away; they’ll be devoured by moths and rust (Matt. 6:19). So, while we validate the way our students may feel about sin, we must also present the truth: God’s Word helps us to choose a better way.

APPLICATION

Why do we desire to look like the world if we know the things of this world will fade away?

THE WIN

FOR THE STUDENT: To dismantle the serpent’s lies, Adam and Eve needed to lean into the truth of God’s words to them—even when it felt like another way seemed better, more pleasing, or more fun. And the same is true for our students. Even when they struggle with desiring this world, they must lean into the truth that their treasure is in heaven.

FOR THE LEADER: As leaders, we know the disappointment that inevitably follows giving in to worldly desires. We know how it feels to chase after the things of this world and then regret our choices. We can share from these disappointments and encourage students to choose differently.