INTRODUCTION

Jesus Teaches That We Are to Be Salt and Light

Bible Point:

Jesus helps us believe.

Key Verse:

“If we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself” (2 Timothy 2:13).

Big Picture:

Follow through on ways you can help others see the importance of following Jesus.

Jesus Walks on Water

Matthew 14:22-33

High school is a time when you start thinking more deeply and asking bigger questions about life and faith. If you have grown up in a Christian home, you might find yourself wondering what you really believe and why. Asking those questions is not a sign of weak faith; it is part of how faith grows stronger and more personal.

This week, you will see that even when you have doubts, Jesus meets you there. Doubt is not something to be afraid of. It can lead you to a deeper understanding and a stronger relationship with God. When you are unsure, remember that Jesus is patient, faithful, and always ready to help you believe.

GROWING IN TRUTH

DAILY CHALLENGE

Choose one or more of these Daily Challenges to do this week.

• Take your “Depicting Doubt” picture home. Each day, take time to pray about the things you wrote on the waves. After each prayer, f lip the paper over to show a calm, peaceful relationship with Jesus.

• Talk with a trusted friend. Ask that person about any doubts they have had about God and how they regained their faith.

• Read the passage about “doubting Thomas” in John 20:24-29. Talk with a friend, or reflect alone, about what this passage of Jesus talking to Thomas means to you: “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

FAITH JOURNAL

When has God helped you through a time of doubt?

TALK WITH YOUR FAMILY

Read Mark 9:20-24 as a family, and then discuss these questions:

• In what ways do you identify with the father?

• What are some things you’ve had “if” kinds of thoughts related to God?

Pray as a family, based on the father’s statement in Mark 9:24. Have each person pray aloud for something he or she would like to see God do. After each prayer, everyone will pray together, “I do believe! Help me overcome my disbelief.”