Made For More | Wk 2: Every Struggle has Purpose
Students are constantly told to dream bigger, hustle harder, and chase success—but what if purpose isn’t some- thing you chase, but something you’re called into? This series helps students see that God’s purpose isn’t about doing more, but becoming more like Him. Through weakness, struggle, and surrender, His plan starts to take shape. Our prayer is that students would see their lives not as random or accidental, but as part of something far greater than themselves.
BOTTOM LINE
Every Struggle has Purpose
SCRIPTURE
Rev 2:8-11 “...I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich... Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown...” >>> John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” >>> 1 Peter 1:6-9 “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials... for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”
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JUST FOR FUN
Take some time to catch up. Ask your students – Take some time to catch up. Take some time to catch up. Ask your students – What is something that is considered 'cool' or ‘in’ right now that you secretly think is ridiculous, and why do you think everyone else is going along with it?
DISCUSS THIS:
1. We started by talking about things that feel unfair. Why do you think we often assume that following God should make our lives easier or "more fair"?2. In Revelation 2:9, Jesus tells a church that was physically poor and persecuted that they were actually "rich." If someone looked at your life right now, what "worldly" things would they see, and what "spiritual" riches (like peace, joy, or knowing Jesus) might they miss?
3. Thinking about the backpack illustration, what is one "weight" or struggle you are
carrying right now? How does it change your perspective to know that Jesus’ response isn’t just "fix it," but "I know"?
4. The lesson mentioned that diamonds are formed under pressure and muscles grow through resistance. Can you think of a time when a difficult situation actually made your faith stronger or changed your character for the better?
5. Jesus told the church in Smyrna to "be faithful," even though it cost them their status and comfort. In your school or friend group, what is the hardest part about being faithful to Jesus? (e.g., not joining in on gossip, standing up for someone, etc.)
6. 1 Peter 1:6-9 says trials are only for a "little while" compared to eternity. When you’re in the middle of a bad week, how can you practically remind yourself of the "Crown of Life" and the big picture of eternity?
7. Why is it harder to stay faithful when you’re trying to do it all by yourself? How can we as a small group do a better job of helping each other carry our "backpacks" this week or the remainder of this school year?
FOLLOW UP / PRAY REQUESTS