LESSON TWENTY-EIGHT (28)
TOPIC: WIDOWHOOD AND SINGLE-PARENTHOOD

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

OPENING PRAYER: Almighty father, please send your help to the fatherless and the widows in our societies in the name of Jesus.

MEMORY VERSE: “Father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.” Psalm 68:5

BIBLE PASSAGE: GENESIS 21:8-19

8 And the child grew, and was weaned: and Abraham made a great feast the same day that Isaac was weaned.

9 And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking.

10 Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.

11 And the thing was very grievous in Abraham’s sight because of his son.

12 And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called.

13 And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed.

14 And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.

15 And the water was spent in the bottle, and she cast the child under one of the shrubs.

16 And she went, and sat her down over against him a good way off, as it were a bow shot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. And she sat over against him, and lift up her voice, and wept.

17 And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.

18 Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great nation.

19 And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink.

INTRODUCTION: A single parent is a parent without a marriage partner widowed or separated deserted divorced or never married one who is alone in charge of his or her household with the wood is the state of a man whose wife is dead or of a woman whose husband is dead God loves and cares very deeply for the widowed and single parents therefore commands us to protect and care for these people in our churches and communities Psalm 82:3

TEXT REVIEW: Genesis 21:8-19
From this passage, teacher should identify the role played by the following people on Ishmael:
i. Abraham …………………………..
ii. Haqar ………………………………
iii. Sarah ……………………………..
iv. God ……………………………….

LESSON OUTLINES:
LESSON OUTLINES 1: CAUSES AND GOD’S DISPOSITION

i. Teacher should ask students to differentiate between a widow/widower and a single parent in term of causes.

ii. Teacher should differentiate as follow in term of causes:
a. widow/ widower: lost spouses to death.
b. Single parent man/woman (caused by) divorce, separation, abandonment, adoption, rape, unwanted pregnancy

iii. Teacher should allow student to find similarities between single parent and widow/widower.

iv. Teacher should explain those premium which God places on widow/widower and single parent as indicated below:
a. God is protector of Widow and father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5).
b. God forbids people from afflicting widow/widower and single parent. (Exodus 22:23).
c. God hears their cries and care for them and their children. (Gen. 21:15:19).

v. God does not want people to maltreat, afflict, abuse or take advantage of widows. (Exodus 22:22).

vi. God wants his children to visit and support the widows and fatherless. James 1:27

vii. God wants believers to defend them (Isaiah 1:17).

viii. The Almighty God values the widows and the fatherless in the following lights:
a. He sustains and relieves them. (Psalms 146:9).
b. God makes provision for them in his law (Deuteronomy 10:18; 26:12-13).
c. He preserves them. (Jeremiah 49:11).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should be allowed to share what they had done to assist the widows or fatherless or motherless.

LESSON OUTLINES 2: OUR RESPONSIBILITY
i. Believers should love and care for them. (James 1:27).

ii. Believers should provide support system for them. (Acts 20:35).

iii.Encourage them in words and deeds. (1 Thess. 5:14).

iv.Train them and or their children.

v. Support them as mordecai supported the orphan haddassah (Esther) and cared for her until she was great. (Esther 2:7).

vi. They must be represented and honoured. (1Tim. 5:3)

vii. The church must support them. (Galatians 6:10).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What Should believers do to help the widows/widowers and single parents?

SUMMARY: Support the widows/widowers, single parents and their children.

CONCLUSION: God’s intention for the church is that it becomes a family of faith, a real community where lives are shared, friendship are formed and support is given as we journey in faith together.

EVALUATION: How can widow’s and single parents be supported?

CLOSING PRAYER: Almighty father, please help your children to respond to the needs of the widows and single parents.

ASSIGNMENT:

1. *Project:* Sunday school classes at the parish level should contribute money or materials to support the widows, widowers, single parents and their children. (As the Lord provides). Those who contribute should be prayed for by the pastor.

2. Mention ten (10) things you can give to support widows, widowers, single parents and their children.

LESSON TWENTY-EIGHT (28)

TOPIC: THE GLORY OF THE YOUTH

*SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN*
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

OPENING PRAYER
Father, let my life bring You pleasure and honour.

MEMORY VERSE: “The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the grey head.”– Proverbs 20:29

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ecclesiastes 12:1-8

1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;

2 While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain:

3 In the day when the keepers of the house shalltremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened,

4 And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low;

5 Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets:

6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern.

7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

8 Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.

INTRODUCTION: Youthful stage is the period of human life between childhood and full adulthood. It is the state of being young. This is the period of human life in which everyone can exercise strength to the fullness of their capacity.

The way you live your life as a youth will determine what will become of you at old age. In *Ecclesiastes 12:1*, the Bible says “Remember now your creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say “I have no pleasure in them.”

TEXT REVIEW: Ecclesiastes 12:1-8
The preacher gives some important instructions to youths.
A. Remember now your creator in the days of your youth because: V1a.
i. Difficult days will come, V1b.
ii. Years draw near when you will say “I have no pleasure in them” V1c.

B. Youths are to positively use their strength:
i. While………… V2
Ii. In the day ….. V3
iii. And …………….. V4
iv. Also, when:
a. ……………………….. V5a
b. …………………………. V5bc. …………………………… V5c
d. ……………………………. V5d
e. ………………………………. V5e
f. …………………………………… V6
v. Because ……………………….. V7
vi. He concluded …………………. V8

LESSON OUTLINES:
LESSON OUTLINE 1: CHARACTERISTICS AND BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF A GLORIOUS YOUTH
A. Glorious youths are not common people because they use their strength to achieve great results in their time.

B. The word STRENGTH goes beyond physical power and emotional toughness.
i. It is the totality of raw potentials given by God to fulfill specific purpose or to perform an assignment on earth (Jeremiah 1:5).

ii. This *strength* brings out the *GLORY* in a youth (1Samuel 16:18).

iii.Your potentials and your strengths in life.

iv. If you want to soar higher in life, you must identify your potential and build your strength on it.

C. *Characteristics of glorious youths*
1. Glorious youths are people who are willing to learn and act on what they have been taught (2 Timothy 2:1-2).

2. They have big dreams which they pursue relentlessly until they are fulfilled (Genesis 42:9).

3. They are zealous and use their zeal creatively for the peace and progress of their nation (1 Samuel 17:32).

4. They are people of great reputation (Genesis 39:9).

5. Glorious youths are very creative and innovative in their chosen career (2Chronicles 2:14).

D. *Biblical examples of glorious youths*
Youths in the Bible days did exploits and records of their works are noted for us to emulate today. Some of them include:
i. Joseph (Genesis 41:38-4 6),
ii.David (1Samuel 17:19-37),
iii. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego (Daniel 3:16-18)
iv. Mary, (Luke 1:27-28)
v. Timothy, (2Timothy 1:2-5)
vi. Jesus (Luke 2:42-52).

E. These are examples of young people who did not wait until they were all grown up to serve God.
i. They were not the future.
ii. They were the presents.
iii. They made a huge impact in the world in their youth.

F. By the standard of the Bible,
i. Christian youths are spiritually endowed to take the lead and subdue nations for Christ anywhere they find themselves in the world.
ii. Youths are to be in the fore front of revolutions (both physical and spiritual) in the time and age.
iii. Youths are to take control of every sector of leadership and economy of the world.
iv. Christian youths need to behave like children of Issachar, who understood the time and season.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention other youths in the Bible that made exploits in their time

LESSON OUTLINE 2: MAXIMISING YOUR YOUTHFUL STRENGTH
A. The major prerequisite to serve God effectively in your youthful age is to give your life to Christ with no reservation.

B. There are many areas of strength that every youth must harness and maximize for Kingdom profitability. Here are some of them:

1. *Speech:* Talk in a way that honours God (Ephesians 4:25-29). Stop telling lies: only use words that are true because God is truthful (Colossians 4:6). Use words that are gentle (Proverbs 15:1). Gentleness means to remain calm and kind, even when you are angry. Do not shout or use harsh words. Use word that are pure. No cursing or use of dirty words. Use words that are loving. Do not hurt people with your words nor talk about them behind their back. Use your words to encourage, teach, comfort, give good advice and build them up in the way of the lord (Ephesians 4:29).

2. *Life:* Imitate Christ with your action (1John 2:6). Read your Bible everyday so that you can learn what Christ is like. You cannot act like Christ if you do not know what he is like. Obey God’s word whenever you read the Bible. Also, in every situation of Life, ask yourself, “What would Jesus do?”, and then do it.

3. *Love:* Do everything with love. Being a Christian is all about love. Jesus said the greatest commandment is love (Matthew 22:37-40; 1Corinthians 14:1; 1Corinthians 16:14). Let Love be your highest goal. If you want to serve God in your youth, then, do everything with love. Make your life all about love (John 3:16).

4. *Faith:* Have unwavering confidence in God. Faith is confidence in God, that he is who he says he is and will do what he says he will do (Hebrews 11:1). The best and perhaps the only way to set an example of unwavering faith is in the face of trials. Trials are faith tests. When the storms of Life hit. Do not doubt God. Do not get angry with him (Romans 8:28).

5. *Purity:* Strive for total sexual purity. God’s will for our sexuality is to keep all sexual activities in marriage-visual, mental, emotional, and physical. This applies to single people and married people (1Thessalonians 4:35; Romans 12:1-2).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: What are the factors that could hinder the youths from MAXIMISING their strength?

SUMMARY: God has special interest in the youths and He wants their impact noticed here on earth. You need to discover your strength for the expansion of God’s kingdom and for your dominion.

CONCLUSION: God wants you to serve him in your youth by duly committing yourself to him (Proverbs 3:5-8). Do not wait for adulthood. Rather, begin right. The best way to start serving God is by setting an example for others to follow. Be an exemplary Christian. Set an example of a fully-devoted Christian, and God will use you in a mighty way.

EVALUATION: Mention some of the area of strength the youths need to maximise.

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, please open my eyes to discover my potentials.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) characteristics of glorious youths.

LESSON TWENTY EIGHT (28)
TOPIC: YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN YOUR LOCKDOWN

*HOUSE FELLOWSHIP ANTHEM*
1. I love this family of God,
So closely knitted into one,
They have taken me into their a rms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

2. I bless this family of God,
So greatly prospered by the Lord,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

3. I know this family of God,
So deeply rooted in the word,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

4. I see this family of God,
So highly lifted above all,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

5. Come, join this family of God,
So highly favoured by the Lord,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family.

OPENING PRAYER: Father, I thank you for being with me through out the lock down.

PREVIOUS KNOWLEDGE: Leaders should let members know that there is nobody that God can’t use no matter the status.

MEMORY VERSE: “When thou passest through the water, I will be thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee” Isaiah 43:2

BIBLE TEXT: Mark 4:35-41

35. And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.

36. And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.

37. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.

38. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?

39. And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

40. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?

41. And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

LESSON INTRODUCTION: A lockdown is defined as a confinement of people or person in a given place. So many thing could cause lockdown of a person in life and they be physical or spiritual but in either but in either case you are restricted to a particular place by a kind of force.

In the text, we read the disciples were on their way with Jesus to “A BETTER SIDE” and the storm arose to keep them in a lockdown. A lockdown therefore could arise when you least expect but the important thing about the storm above is that Jesus was with them.

Most of the time when we get into different types of lockdowns like the disciples, we trend to forget Christians that someone is in the boat/ship with us …..Jesus. He was fully aware of the storm but He waited for them to CALL on Him.

TEXT REVIEW: MARK 4:35-41
i. we should not bound with the spirit of fear.
ii. we need to build our faith

LESSON OUTLINES:
FIVE LESSONS FROM THE TEXT
1. When you are on a destiny journey, always set out with Jesus Christ (Invite Him into your boat).
2. Lockdown may arise in form of storms.
3. Fear is usually generated to confuse.
4. Remember that Jesus is with you, call on Him.
5. A great solution, like the great calm is usually revealed.

ACTIVITY: Discuss other steps that can be taken when faced with storms.

SUMMARY: A lockdown therefore could arise when you least expected but the important thing about the storm above is that Jesus is always with us.

CONCLUSION: Lockdown may arise but never lose sight of the fact that you are not alone, there is someone in the lockdown with you, who can command the termination of the lockdown, His name is Jesus.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Father please do not leave me alone in the journey of life.

2. Father I thank you for being there for my family, marriage and ministry in the different lockdown experience.

3. Father, please let yiyour presence be upon me and my loved ones in Jesus’ name.

4. Father, help RCCG to always have Jesus in their boat of life in Jesus’ name.

5. Father, according to the Bible, I will not be moved when I pass through the waters or fire of life for Jesus is with me.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK:

MONDAY: Meditate on God’s goodness when you are in lockdown, Ps 42:6

TUESDAY: Cry unto Him for help when nobody seems to be helping, Ps 88:1

WEDNESDAY: During a lockdown when you seems to be alone ACT don’t REACT, Mark 4:37-38

THURSDAY: When the problems are too big and life seems unfair, take your eyes off your difficulty and look unto God, Hebrews 12:2a

FRIDAY: When it seems to you that results are not not coming from your investments or efforts, if Jesus resurrected nothing is wasted, continue the good work,1 Corinthians 15:58

SATURDAY: YES, God still cares for you and your household don’t be discouraged, Acts 14:17

SUNDAY: Report it to the AUTHORITY in charge, Isaiah 43:15. God is in control even now.

LESSON TWENTY-EIGHT (28)
TOPIC: WIDOWHOOD AND SINGLE-PARENTHOOD

*SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN*
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

MEMORY VERSE: “Father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.” Psalm 68:5

BIBLE PASSAGE: GENESIS 21:8-19

8 And the child grew, and was weaned: and Abraham made a great feast the same day that Isaac was weaned.

9 And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking.

10 Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.

11 And the thing was very grievous in Abraham’s sight because of his son.

12 And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called.

13 And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed.

14 And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.

15 And the water was spent in the bottle, and she cast the child under one of the shrubs.

16 And she went, and sat her down over against him a good way off, as it were a bow shot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. And she sat over against him, and lift up her voice, and wept.

17 And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.

18 Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great nation.

19 And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink.

INTRODUCTION: A single parent is a parent without a marriage partner widowed or separated deserted divorced or never married one who is alone in charge of his or her household with the wood is the state of a man whose wife is dead or of a woman whose husband is dead God loves and cares very deeply for the widowed and single parents therefore commands us to protect and care for these people in our churches and communities. Psalm 82:3

LESSON OUTLINES:
1. CAUSES AND GOD’S DISPOSITION
2. OUR RESPONSIBILITY

CAUSES AND GOD’S DISPOSITION
The reason for becoming a widow/widower is due to the death of a spouse while that of a single parent differs from one person to another.

For some, it is a deliberate desire/preference while situations such as divorce, separation, abandonment death of a partner/spouse, single-person adoption, unwanted pregnancy, rape, etc. force some other into it. In many occasions, the experiences of both single-parents and widows/widower are quite similar.

God is highly concerned about single parents and Widows. He is the father to the fatherless and the protectors of Widows (Psalm 68:5). God does not want them to be afflicted or badly treated. He hears them when they cry (Exodus 22:23). God says anyone who maltreats them may invite his wrath (Exodus 22:22-24).

To maltreat could be to neglect, abuse or take advantage of. God wants us to defend them (Isaiah 1:17). He sustains and relieves widows (Psalms 146:9).

God makes provision for them in his law (Deuteronomy 10:18; 26:12-13). He preserves the fatherless children and expects widows to trust him (Jeremiah 49:11).

OUR RESPONSIBILITY

Irrespective of the cause, single parents and widows should be treated with love and acceptance to ease their sense of isolation. Involve them in activities that are appropriate for them.

Provision of support system such as helping with repair projects, giving scholarship for the children’s education, welfare support, etc. will go a long way in helping widows and/or single parents live a better life.

Sharing words of encouragement via text messages, email, or phone call will help them in their responsibility of raising godly children. Encourage single parents and the widowed to discover their purpose from God’s viewpoint.

Provide an environment for single parents and widows to learn skills that can help them sustain and provide for themselves and their children. Help them through love to develop a close relationship with God who can heal them from wounds, bitterness and resentment they might be experiencing.

Family members are enjoined to take care of them so that they will not suffer. This is seen as a proof of their commitment to God (1 Timothy 5:4). Widows and children of single parents should not be abused, stigmatised or enslaved but should be helped (James 1:27).

Finally, Christians should identify with the widow/widowers and single parents in the church by giving them necessary support (Galatians 6:10).

CONCLUSION: God’s intention for the church is that it becomes a family of faith, a real community where lives are shared, friendship are formed and support is given as we journey in faith together.

EVALUATION: How can widow’s and single parents be supported?

QUESTIONS:
1. What are The likely causes of single parenthood?
2. Mention five responsibilities of believers to single parents and widows around them?

LESSON TWENTY-EIGHT (28)
TOPIC: THE GLORY OF THE YOUTH

*SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN*
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

MEMORY VERSE: “The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the grey head.”–Proverbs 20:29

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ecclesiastes 12:1-8

1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;

2 While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain:

3 In the day when the keepers of the house shalltremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened,

4 And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low;

5 Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets:

6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern.

7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

8 Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.

INTRODUCTION: Youthful stage is the period of human life between childhood and full adulthood. It is the state of being young. This is the period of human life in which everyone can exercise strength to the fullness of their capacity.

The way you live your life as a youth will determine what will become of you at old age. In *Ecclesiastes 12:1*, the Bible says “Remember now your creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say “I have no pleasure in them.”

LESSON OUTLINES:
1. CHARACTERISTICS AND BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF A GLORIOUS YOUTH
2. MAXIMISING YOUR YOUTHFUL STRENGTH

CHARACTERISTICS AND BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF A GLORIOUS YOUTH

Glorious youths are not common people because they use their strength to achieve great results in their time. The word STRENGTH goes beyond physical power and emotional toughness. It is the totality of raw potentials given by God to fulfill specific purpose or to perform an assignment on earth (Jeremiah 1:5).

This strength brings out the GLORY in a youth (1 Samuel 16:18). Your potentials and your strengths in life. If you want to soar higher in life, you must identify your potential and build your strength on it. Glorious youths are people who are willing to learn and act on what they have been taught (2 Timothy 2:1-2).

They have big dreams which they pursue relentlessly until they are fulfilled (Genesis 42:9). They are zealous and use their zeal creatively for the peace and progress of their nation (1 Samuel 17:32). They are people of great reputation (Genesis 39:9).

Glorious youths are very creative and innovative in their chosen career (2Chronicles 2:14). Youths in the Bible days did exploits and records of their works are noted for us to emulate today. Some of them include: Joseph (Genesis 41:38-46), David (1Samuel 17:19-37), Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego (Daniel 3:16-18) Mary, (Luke 1:27-28) Timothy, (2Timothy 1:2-5) and Jesus (Luke 2:42-52).

These are examples of young people who did not wait until they were all grown up to serve God. They were not the future. They were the presents. They made a huge impact in the world in their youth.

By the standard of the Bible, Christian youths are spiritually endowed to take the lead and subdue nations for Christ anywhere they find themselves in the world. Youths are to be in the fore front of revolutions (both physical and spiritual) in the time and age.

Youths are to take control of every sector of leadership and economy of the world. Christian youths need to behave like children of Issachar, who understood the time and season.

MAXIMISING YOUR YOUTHFUL STRENGTH
The major prerequisite to serve God effectively in your youthful age is to give your life to Christ with no reservation. There are many areas of strength that every youth must harness and maximize for Kingdom profitability. Here are some of them:

1. *Speech:* Talk in a way that honours God (Ephesians 4:25-29). Stop telling lies: only use words that are true because God is truthful (Colossians 4:6). Use words that are gentle (Proverbs 15:1). Gentleness means to remain calm and kind, even when you are angry. Do not shout or use harsh words. Use word that are pure. No cursing or use of dirty words. Use words that are loving. Do not hurt people with your words nor talk about them behind their back. Use your words to encourage, teach, comfort, give good advice and build them up in the way of the lord (Ephesians 4:29).

2. *Life:* Imitate Christ with your action (1John 2:6). Read your Bible everyday so that you can learn what Christ is like. You cannot act like Christ if you do not know what he is like. Obey God’s word whenever you read the Bible. Also, in every situation of Life, ask yourself, “What would Jesus do?”, and then do it.

3. *Love:* Do everything with love. Being a Christian is all about love. Jesus said the greatest commandment is love (Matthew 22:37-40; 1Corinthians 14:1; 1Corinthians 16:14). Let Love be your highest goal. If you want to serve God in your youth, then, do everything with love. Make your life all about love (John 3:16).

4. *Faith:* Have unwavering confidence in God. Faith is confidence in God, that he is who he says he is and will do what he says he will do (Hebrews 11:1). The best and perhaps the only way to set an example of unwavering faith is in the face of trials. Trials are faith tests. When the storms of Life hit. Do not doubt God. Do not get angry with him (Romans 8:28).

5. *Purity:* Strive for total sexual purity. God’s will for our sexuality is to keep all sexual activities in marriage-visual, mental, emotional, and physical. This applies to single people and married people (1Thessalonians 4:35; Romans 12:1-2).

CONCLUSION: God wants you to serve him in your youth by duly committing yourself to him (Proverbs 3:5-8). Do not wait for adulthood. Rather, begin right. The best way to start serving God is by setting an example for others to follow. Be an exemplary Christian. Set an example of a fully-devoted Christian, and God will use you in a mighty way.

EVALUATION: Mention some of the area of strength the youths need to maximise.

QUESTIONS:
1. What are the characteristics of a glorious youth?
2. How can you maximize your youthful strength?

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 13 MARCH 2022 MEMORIZE: And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; Luke 18:1

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 13 MARCH 2022 BIBLE READING 1 TIMOTHY 2:1-2

1. I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2. For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 13 MARCH 2022 MESSAGE

Intercession is a prayer to God on behalf of another person. It takes someone with a heart full of love to pray for others especially when you have your own prayer requests.

Long ago, I discovered that Jobs complete restoration was as a result of his intercession for his friends, so, I started practising it and this has been one of the secrets to our success in RCCG today.

Job 42:10 says: “And the Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.”

Many atime, Christians get so wrapped up in their own circumstances that they forget to pray for others. In fact, todays Bible reading encourages us to offer prayers for all men, with no mention of our relationship with them.

Whether it’s a church member, classmate, relative, an enemy, et cetera, just pray for them. You never can tell if your blessings are tied to the intercession you make for other people.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 13 MARCH 2022 PRAYER POINT

For the next 20 minutes, pray for someone else.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 13 MARCH 2022 HYMN

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 13 MARCH 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: MARK 14:26-72, DEUTERONOMY 20:1-20, DEUTERONOMY 21:1-23, DEUTERONOMY 22:1-30

OPEN HEAVEN 13 MARCH 2022 MEMORIZE: And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. Luke 9:62

OPEN HEAVEN 13 MARCH 2022 BIBLE READING LUKE 9:57-62

57. And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.

58. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

59. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.

60. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.

61. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.

62. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

OPEN HEAVEN 13 MARCH 2022 MESSAGE

Situations in the world today can make any child of God backslide if he or she is not well-grounded in His word. Knowing this, Jesus Christ told the disciples in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken unto you, that In me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world”.

Just after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, Peter decided to return to his former trade of fishing along with some other disciples (John 21:3).

Many things could have been responsible for their decision to abandon their calling in Christ as evangelists to go back to fishing. Peter and the other disciples that followed him must have felt the future was bleak since their expectation of Jesus as the political Messiah was dashed at His crucifixion.

They may also have been disappointed over the fact that, upon His resurrection, Jesus Christ did not restore the sovereignty of Israel as a nation, as expected.

This made them ask, “..Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?” (Acts 1:6).

Beloved, what may cause you to contemplate going back into the world? Is it joblessness, a troublesome spouse, a failed business, yet-to-be-fulfilled dreams, betrayal from friends or loved ones?.

Take a cue from Paul – an apostle of Christ, when he asked rhetorically: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?…Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. – (Romans 8:35,37).

Jesus Christ in our memory verse today warns us against going back when He says that, having decided to work for the Lord, anyone who goes back to the world is not fit for the kingdom (Luke 9:62).

Therefore beloved, going back because of what you are passing through is not an option because the Bible says that we should hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering (Hebrews 10:23).

The good news is that glory is waiting ahead of you if only you can hold on to Christ and never go back to the world (Colossians 1:27, Psalm 30:5).

OPEN HEAVEN 13 MARCH 2022 KEY POINT

Father, please keep me in Your arms, don’t let me fall away from the faith, in Jesus’ name.

OPEN HEAVEN 13 MARCH 2022 HYMN

MY FAITH LOOKS UP TO THEE

1. My faith looks up to Thee,
Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Saviour divine!
Now hear me while I pray,
Take all my guilt away;
O let me from this day
Be wholly Thine.

2. May Thy rich grace impart
Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire;
As Thou hast died for me,
O may my love to Thee
Pure, warm, and changeless be,
A living fire.

3. While life’s dark maze I tread,
And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my guide;
Bid darkness turn to day,
Wipe sorrow’s tears away,
Nor let me ever stray
From Thee aside.

4. When ends life’s transient dream,
When death’s cold, sullen stream
Shall o’er me roll, Blest Saviour, then in love,
Fear and distrust remove;
O bear me safe above,
A ransomed soul.

OPEN HEAVEN 13 MARCH 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: JOSHUA 21-23

Thank you for joining us today. Please, say these declarations in faith and believe God for a performance.

Note: These prayers are spiritual and can only be understood and fully enjoyed by God’s children. If you want to be blessed from these prayers, you must first, surrender your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, by saying this prayer:

“Lord Jesus, I come before You today with a broken and contrite heart full of repentance. Please, forgive me all my sins. Today, I surrender my life to You, I believe that Jesus is Lord and I confess it with my mouth. Jesus, come into my life and save my soul from eternal destruction in hellfire. In Jesus’ name, I pray.”

If you joined in that life-changing prayer! Kindly reach us today: [email protected] for guidance on how to grow in Christ.

Join today’s Devotion here: Open Heavens 12 March 2022

Today’s Prayer Points: Prayers points for Open Heavens 12 March 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today I live and behave like the bright and morning start – Jesus Christ, therefore my life shines brightly even in the darkness of this world and men are compelled to come to this light in Jesus name. Amen Hallelujah!

DAILY DECLARATION

I decree and declare I press on, that I may lay hold of that which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead in Jesus name.

I decree and declare this is a day that God has made so I rejoice in it in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I am cleansed by the blood of the lamb and I am forgiven in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare as I come before the throne of God’s grace, I obtain mercy and find grace in the time of need in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare I read, understand, and diligently apply God’s Word in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare I do good here on earth and I receive a great reward when I appear before the judgement seat of God in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare that I obey God’s word and I am thoroughly discipled by the Holy Spirit in the name of Jesus.

I declare that Jesus is Lord over my life. Therefore, I shine like the bright and morning star in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare that my finances flourish and prosper regardless of the nation’s economy in Jesus name.

I decree and declare that I have divine health in Jesus name.

I declare that I am a soul winner in the name of Jesus.

My Father and my God, bless Your son, Pastor E.A Adeboye; may none of his words fall to the ground, in Jesus’ name.

Holy Spirit thank You for the intercessory team, thank You for Your power and presence in their midst. Help them to continue to communicate Your heart even through these prayers.

Thank You Holy Spirit for all the testimonies and miracles coming through these prayers. May they be permanent in Jesus name.

Somebody shout Hallelujah!

Beloved, thank you for joining us today. Please, say these prayers in faith and believe God for a performance.

Note: These prayers are spiritual, this can only be understood and fully accessed by God’s children. If you want to be blessed from these prayers, you must first, surrender your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, by saying this prayer:

“Lord Jesus, I come before You today with a broken and contrite heart full of repentance. Please, forgive me all my sins. Today, I surrender my life to You, I believe that Jesus is Lord and I confess it with my mouth. Jesus, come into my life and save my soul from eternal destruction in hellfire. In Jesus’ name, I pray.”

If you joined in that life-changing prayer, congratulations! Welcome to the family of God. Kindly reach us today via this email: [email protected]

Today’s Devotional: Open Heavens 12 March 2022

Powerful Declarations: Powerful Declarations For Today 12 March 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today I live and behave like the bright and morning start – Jesus Christ, therefore my life shines brightly even in the darkness of this world and men are compelled to come to this light in Jesus name. Amen Hallelujah!

PRAYER POINTS

Father of grace and mercy, I thank You for the gift of life. Thank You for the gift of salvation and for the gift of Your dear Son, Jesus.

Father I ask that You forgive me my sins. I ask that You visit me in Your mercy and raise me up in the cleansing name of Your Son Jesus

Father I thank You even for Your word that says that when ever I call upon You You answer me. I have come to no other but You, my Lord and my Lover

Father I pray that the eyes of my understanding be open to see the great things You have placed within my reach, grasp them and use them for Your glory, in the name of Jesus

Father I pray that my eyes will be open to areas of my life that need a change and need improvement. Help my marriage, help my relationship, help my work, help my studies, in the name of Jesus

Father, help me to obey your word and be thoroughly discipled by you in the name of Jesus.

Father, you are the bright and morning star. Let my life reflect your glory and let me shine bright in Jesus name.

Jesus, take over my life. I surrender to you. Let beautiful things begin to happen to me in Jesus name.

Father, let me flourish regardless of the problems in the economy of nations in the name of Jesus.

Father let my heart flourish. Grant me a clean bill of health in Jesus name.

Lord, help me to continually win souls in Jesus name.

My Lord and my God thank You for Pastor E.A Adeboye. I ask and pray that You strengthen him. May the wisdom and inspiration of the Almighty upon him never cease in Jesus name.

Thank You Father for the intercessory team and the online platform (rccgonline.org) and that which You have put in their hearts, I pray that You make them as flaming swords to bring men to Your kingdom and shut down the works of darkness in the name of Jesus.

Father, bless everyone that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, beyond measures, and all those who have been rebroadcasting them, in Jesus’ name.

Thank You Father for the family involved in setting this platform (rccgonline.org) on fire for You. Father I ask that You lift them high above the storms around them and multiply Your grace towards them.

Father, let every challenge, hindrance and obstacle of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus’ name.

Submit yourself and your personal petitions to God. Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you

( Philippians 4:6)

In Jesus’ name I pray.

(John 14:13-14; 15:16)

Thank you Father for answered prayers.

(1 Thessalonians 5:18).

#GodBlessOurNation

These prayers have no expiry date! Please, pray them, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 12 MARCH 2022 MEMORIZE: He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved. Psalms 62:2

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 12 MARCH 2022 BIBLE READING PSALMS 62:5-8

5. My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.

6. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.

7. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.

8. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 12 MARCH 2022 MESSAGE

A rock signifies strength. In ancient days, people lived under rocks, particularly during wars because they were believed to provide strong protection and could not be easily burnt down or blasted into bits.

Another good thing about a rock is that it cannot become old, dilapidated or even change, unlike people. Thus when the Psalmist referred to God as his Rock, he knew what he was saying.

God can never change because He is the Rock of ages. He is a rock of safety and a shelter for those who trust in Him, because nothing can move Him.

A hymnist wrote: “Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in thee;” The hymnist wanted to hide himself in the Rock. Why don’t you do the same today?.

No matter what you are going through at the moment, believe me when I tell you that this Rock is solid, eternal and strong enough to carry whatever is overwhelming or crushing you. Hide in Him.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 12 MARCH 2022 KEY POINT

Unburden your heart to God for 30 minutes today. Tell Him what no one knows about you and how you want Him to change the narrative.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 12 MARCH 2022 HYMN

O GOD OUR HELP IN AGES PAST

1. O God, our help in ages past,
our hope for years to come,
our shelter from the stormy blast,
and our eternal home;

2. Under the shadow of Thy throne
Thy saints have dwelt secure.
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
and our defence is sure.

3. Before the hills in order stood,
or earth received her frame,
from everlasting Thou art God,
to endless years the same.

4. A thousand ages in Thy sight
are like an evening gone,
short as the watch that ends the
night before the rising sun.

5. Time, like an ever-rolling stream,
bears all its sons away.
They fly forgotten, as a dream
dies at the opening day.

6. O God, our help in ages past,
our hope for years to come,
be Thou our guard while troubles last,
and our eternal home.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 12 MARCH 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: MARK 14:1-72, DEUTERONOMY 17-19