Part I

Before diving into the main topic of the meaning of having a relationship with God, it's essential to first explore the
concept of relationships in general.

Activity:

"Get to Know You" Activity:

Divide the youth into pairs or small groups, and have them interview each other to learn more about their interests,
hobbies, dreams, and values. Have participants (with their group) take a few minutes to journal or reflect on the
following question:

What does it mean to have a relationship with God?

Encourage open and meaningful conversations. Afterward, each person can introduce their partner/group member
to the larger group, emphasizing the importance of knowing and understanding one another in any relationship.

The facilitators will ask the delegates about what does it mean to have a relationship with God. In this way, they will
be able to get the perspective of the participant’s view of relationship with God

Conclusion:

Relationships are important. And the most important- top priority relationship is relationship with God as this is the
foundation of every other relationship we have.

PART II
TO THE MAIN TOPIC

What does it mean to have a relationship with God?

Main points

1. "You are saved by faith through Christ":

Ephesians 2:8-9: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is
the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."

Romans 10:9: "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him
from the dead, you will be saved."

2. "We are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength":

Mark 12:30: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and
with all your strength."

Deuteronomy 6:5: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your
strength."

3. "We are part of His family, adopted as His sons and daughters":
 Ephesians 1:5-6: "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his
pleasure and will—to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves."

Romans 8:15: "The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the
Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him, we cry, 'Abba, Father."

4. "The world will hate us":

John 15:18-19: "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it
would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.
That is why the world hates you."

1 John 3:13: "Do not be surprised, my brothers and sisters, if the world hates you."

5. "We are to grow in that relationship and bear fruit":

Colossians 1:10: "so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in
every good work, growing in the knowledge of God."

John 15:4-5: "Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the
vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain
in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."

6. "We are to love one another":

John 13:34-35: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one
another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another."

1 John 4:7-8: "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been
born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God because God is love.

Talking points guideline for the speaker/facilitator

1. YOU ARE SAVED BY FAITH THROUGH CHRIST

In our relationship with God, the first milestone we encounter is salvation by faith through Christ. This
foundational truth of our relationship with God, found throughout Scripture, reminds us that our salvation is not
earned by our works but is a gift of God's grace.

[Reading: Ephesians 2:8-9]

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result
of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9, ESV)

[Explanation]
These verses from Ephesians teach us a crucial aspect of our relationship with God. Our salvation is not something
we can achieve through our own efforts or good deeds. No amount of good works can earn us God's favor or a
place in His kingdom. Instead, salvation is a gift—a gift of God's grace that we receive by placing our faith in Jesus
Christ.

[Reading: Galatians 2:16]

"Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have
believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law because by works of
the law no one will be justified." (Galatians 2:16, ESV)

[Explanation]

In this passage from Galatians, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that justification—the act of being declared righteous
before God—comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by adhering to the law or religious rituals. Our faith in Christ's
sacrifice on the cross becomes the means of our salvation.

2. Loving God with All Our Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength

[Reading: Mark 12:30]

"And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and
with all your strength." (Mark 12:30, ESV)

[Explanation]

In this powerful verse from the Gospel of Mark, Jesus provides a comprehensive commandment on how we
are to love God. It encompasses every aspect of our being—our emotions, thoughts, will, and physical
strength. This love is not just a superficial feeling but a devotion that penetrates the very core of who we are.

Loving God with All Our Heart:

To love God with all our heart means to have an affectionate and emotional connection with Him. It is an
expression of our genuine love and adoration for our Heavenly Father. As we draw near to God with open
hearts, we experience His overwhelming love and respond with heartfelt worship.

[Reference: Psalm 18:1]

"I love you, O Lord, my strength." (Psalm 18:1, ESV)

Loving God with All Our Soul:

Loving God with all our soul involves surrendering our entire being to Him. It is a recognition that our lives
belong to Him, and we find our true purpose and fulfillment in a relationship with Him. Our souls find rest and
satisfaction in God alone.

[Reference: Psalm 62:1]

"For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation." (Psalm 62:1, ESV)
Loving God with All Our Mind:

Loving God with all our mind engages our intellect and thoughts. It means aligning our thinking with God's
truth, meditating on His Word, and seeking to understand His will for our lives. Our love for God is not blind,
but an informed and intentional decision.

[Reference: Romans 12:2]

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may
discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2, ESV)

Loving God with All Our Strength:

Loving God with all our strength involves dedicating our physical abilities and energy to serve and honor Him.
It is an active love that seeks to glorify God through our actions, service, and obedience.

[Reference: 1 Corinthians 10:31]

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31, ESV)

[Conclusion]

Loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength is a call to wholeheartedly devote ourselves to the One
who first loved us. It is an invitation to experience the fullness of life in Christ as we engage every aspect of our
being in loving adoration and obedience to our Heavenly Father.

3. We are part of His family, adopted as His sons and daughters. Adopted as His Children

[Reading: Ephesians 1:5-6]

"In love, he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose
of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved." (Ephesians 1:5-
6, ESV)

[Explanation]
These verses from Ephesians reveal the profound truth of our adoption into God's family. This adoption is
not based on our merit or works, but it is an expression of God's boundless love and grace toward us. Let
us explore what it means to be adopted as His children and the privileges it brings.

a) God's Unconditional Love:

As adopted children of God, we experience His unconditional love. God's love for us is not based on our
performance, but on His nature as a loving Father. We are fully embraced and accepted, knowing that
nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39).

[Reading: Romans 8:15-16]

"For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of
adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!' The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we
are children of God..." (Romans 8:15-16, ESV)

b) An Identity in Christ:
 Through adoption, we receive a new identity as children of God. Our past no longer defines us, and we are
transformed into a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our identity is rooted in being heirs of
God's promises and joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).

[Reference: Galatians 4:4-7]

Access to the Father:
As His adopted children, we have direct access to the Father through Jesus Christ. We can approach Him with
confidence, knowing that He listens to our prayers and cares for us deeply. Our relationship with Him is
personal and intimate. (Hebrews 4:16)

HIGHLIGHT ALSO THAT WE CAN COME TO THE FATHER AND ASK HIM FOR ANYTHING WITH CONFIDENCE
(school life, finances, family, work, dreams) AND TRUST HIM THAT AT THE END OF THE DAY HIS WILL BE
DONE.

c) Inheritance in God's Kingdom:

As heirs of God, we are entitled to an inheritance in His Kingdom. Our adoption secures for us an eternal
inheritance that will never perish, spoil, or fade (1 Peter 1:4). This inheritance includes the promise of
eternal life and the joys of being in God's presence forever.
Reference:
"...and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order
that we may also be glorified with him." (Romans 8:17, ESV)

[Conclusion]
As we embrace the truth of being adopted as God's children, let us revel in the privileges it brings. We are
loved unconditionally, given a new identity in Christ, have direct access to the Father, and are entitled to an
eternal inheritance in His Kingdom. Let us live as beloved children of God, walking in the confidence of His
love and grace.

4. The world will hate us

[Reading: John 15:18-19]

"If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world
would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world,
therefore the world hates you." (John 15:18-19, ESV)

[Explanation]
In these verses from the Gospel of John, Jesus prepares His disciples for the reality of the world's hostility
towards them because of their association with Him. As followers of Christ, we are called to be in the
world but not of the world, and this can lead to opposition from those who reject the message of the
Gospel.

THESE ARE OUR RESPONSES TO THE WORLD.

Standing Firm in Our Faith:

The implications of facing adversity for our faith require us to stand firm in our beliefs and convictions. In
the face of opposition, we must remain rooted in God's Word and the truth of the Gospel.

"Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." (1 Corinthians 16:13, ESV)
 Responding with Love and Grace:
While the world may hate us, our response should be marked by love and grace. Rather than retaliating
with anger, we are called to show Christ's love even to those who oppose us.
Reference:
"But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you,
pray for those who abuse you." (Luke 6:27-28, ESV)

Finding Strength in Christ:

In times of adversity, we find strength and comfort in Christ. He has overcome the world, and through
Him, we can navigate the challenges we face with courage and faith.
Reference:
"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But
take heart; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33, ESV)

Trusting in God's Sovereignty:

As we encounter adversity, we must trust in God's sovereignty and His plan for our lives. He is in control,
and even in the midst of trials, He works all things for our good.
Reference:
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called
according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28, ESV)

[Conclusion]
Facing adversity as Christians is a reality we cannot avoid, but we do not face it alone. We have the
assurance that Christ is with us, and His love and grace sustain us through every challenge. As we stand firm
in our faith, respond with love, find strength in Christ, and trust in God's sovereignty, we can navigate
through adversity with courage and hope.

5. Our relationship with Him is not meant to remain stagnant but to mature and bear fruit in our lives.

[Reading: Colossians 1:10]

"...so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and
increasing in the knowledge of God." (Colossians 1:10, ESV)

[Explanation]

This verse from Colossians highlights the significance of growing in our relationship with God. It encourages us to
walk in a way that pleases Him, bearing fruit in every good work. As we increase in the knowledge of God, we
deepen our understanding of His character, will, and ways.

REASONS WHY WE OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD NEEDS GROWTH

Deepening Our Knowledge of God:

The more we grow in our relationship with God, the deeper our understanding of His nature becomes. As we
study His Word, pray, and seek His presence, we gain insight into His love, grace, and wisdom. This knowledge
transforms our minds and shapes our perspective, leading to a life aligned with God's will.

[Reference: Philippians 3:10]

"That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his
death." (Philippians 3:10, ESV)
Experiencing Spiritual Transformation:

As we grow in our relationship with God, the Holy Spirit works within us to bring about spiritual transformation.
Our attitudes, desires, and behaviors begin to align with God's standards, making us more like Christ. This
transformation enables us to bear the fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

[Reference: 2 Corinthians 3:18]

"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one
degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

Bearing Fruit in Every Good Work:

A growing relationship with God leads to fruitful living. The more intimately we know God, the more His love and
grace overflow from us to touch the lives of others. Our actions, motivated by love for God, impact the world
around us positively.

[Reference: John 15:5]

"I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from
me you can do nothing." (John 15:5, ESV)

Strengthening Our Faith and Trust:

As we grow in our relationship with God, our faith and trust in Him deepen. Through life's challenges and trials,
our unwavering trust in God's faithfulness sustains us. We become anchored in His promises, knowing that He is
with us through every circumstance.

[Reference: Isaiah 40:31]

"But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run
and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31, ESV)

[Conclusion]

Our relationship with God needs to grow because growth is inherent to a vibrant and thriving faith. As we deepen
our knowledge of God, experience spiritual transformation, bear fruit in good works, and strengthen our faith and
trust, we become more effective vessels for God's love and grace in the world.

6. Love One Another

[Reading: John 13:34-35]

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to
love one another. By this, all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another."
(John 13:34-35, ESV)

[Explanation]
In these verses from the Gospel of John, Jesus gives us a clear and profound command: to love one
another as He has loved us. This love is not a mere emotion or sentiment; it is a selfless and sacrificial love
that mirrors Christ's love for us. Let us explore how we can show our love for one another, reflecting the
love of Christ in our relationships.
Selfless Acts of Service:
One way we show love to one another is through selfless acts of service. Putting others' needs before our
own and offering our time and resources to help and support them exemplifies Christ's love in action.
[Reference: Galatians 5:13]
"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but
through love serve one another." (Galatians 5:13, ESV)

Compassion and Empathy:

Compassionately understanding and empathizing with one another's joys, struggles, and pain allows us to
share in each other's experiences and emotions. Through compassion, we can offer comfort and
encouragement to those in need.
[Reference: Colossians 3:12]
"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness,
and patience..." (Colossians 3:12, ESV)

Forgiveness and Reconciliation:

Love requires forgiveness and a willingness to reconcile with one another when conflicts arise. Choosing to
forgive and seek reconciliation reflects the forgiveness and reconciliation we have received from God
through Christ.
[Reference: Ephesians 4:32]
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." (Ephesians
4:32, ESV)

Encouragement and Building Up:

Showing love to one another involves encouraging and building each other up in faith and character.
Offering words of affirmation and support can be a powerful way to show love and uplift others.
[Reference: 1 Thessalonians 5:11]
"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." (1 Thessalonians 5:11,
ESV)

[Conclusion]
As we follow Christ's command to love one another, we become a testimony to the world of our faith in Him.
Our love for one another demonstrates the transforming power of God's love in our lives and draws others
to the beauty of the Gospel. Let us daily strive to love one another, reflecting the love of Christ to a world in
need.
 PART III
Guide answers for the facilitators

1. "You are saved by faith through Christ":

a) Being saved by faith means that our salvation is a result of God's grace and not our own efforts. It is through faith
in Jesus Christ as our Savior that we receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life (Ephesians 2:8-9). Our good works
cannot earn salvation; it is a free gift offered to us by God through Christ's sacrifice on the cross.

b) Personal experiences of God's saving grace and the transformation it brings can be powerful testimonies of His
love and mercy. Such experiences can deepen our faith and help us understand that God's grace is sufficient to cover
all our sins, leading to a life of gratitude and devotion.

c) Sharing the message of salvation through faith can be done through our words and actions. It's essential to convey
that salvation is available to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ, regardless of their past or background. We can
share the gospel with love and compassion, trusting the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of those who hear the
message.

2. "We are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength":

a) Loving God with all our being is at the core of the greatest commandment (Mark 12:30). It involves surrendering
our entire lives to God and acknowledging His lordship over every aspect of our existence.

b) Integrating love for God into our daily lives involves prioritizing time for prayer, worship, and studying His Word. It
also includes seeking His guidance in decision-making and relying on His strength in challenging situations.

c) Moments of deep connection with God during worship or prayer can remind us of His love and presence in our
lives. Such experiences can inspire us to seek a continuous and authentic relationship with Him.

3. "We are part of His family, adopted as His sons and daughters":

a) As believers in Christ, we are adopted into God's family and become His children (Ephesians 1:5- 6). This means we
have a special relationship with Him as our Heavenly Father, and we share a familial bond with all other believers.

b) Encouraging and supporting one another within the faith community reflects the unity and love that should
characterize God's family. Just as a loving family cares for its members, we should care for and support one another
spiritually and practically.

c) Extending love and care beyond our faith community can be achieved through outreach and missions, sharing the
good news of God's love with those who do not yet know Him, and showing kindness and compassion to those in
need.
 4. "The world will hate us":

a) The hostility of the world towards followers of Christ is not unexpected. Jesus warned us that the world would
hate us because it first hated Him (John 15:18-19). As Christians, we stand for truth and righteousness, which may
conflict with the values of the world.

b) In times of hostility, we find strength and courage through our relationship with Christ and by knowing that we are
not alone. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be steadfast in our faith, and our identity as God's children helps us
navigate through challenging situations.

c) Encourage the youth to support and encourage one another during times of hostility. Being part of a community
that understands and empathizes with their struggles can provide comfort and strengthen their faith.

5. "We are to grow that relationship and bear fruit":

a) Spiritual growth is a lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit in us. It
involves engaging in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, reading the Bible, fellowship, and serving others.

b) The fruit of a growing relationship with God is reflected in the development of Christ-like virtues in our lives
(Galatians 5:22-23). As we mature spiritually, we should increasingly exhibit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

c) Challenges to spiritual growth are common, but we can overcome them by relying on God's strength and seeking
support from fellow believers. Accountability, prayer, and staying rooted in God's Word are essential for maintaining
growth in our relationship with Him.

6. "We are to love one another":

a) Demonstrating love for one another is a clear commandment from Jesus (John 13:34-35). Love is not just an
emotion but an action—showing kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and support to fellow believers.

b) Conflicts are inevitable in any community, but resolving them with love and understanding is crucial. Jesus taught
us to seek reconciliation and forgiveness, even when it's difficult (Matthew 5:23-24).

c) Acts of love from fellow believers can be powerful testimonies of God's love and can deeply impact individuals'
lives. Encourage youth to actively seek opportunities to demonstrate love to others, whether through service or
simple acts of kindness.
 PART IV
Concluding activity:

Love Letter to God - Deepening Our Relationship

Objective: The activity aims to encourage participants to express their emotions, thoughts, and gratitude towards
God in a personal and creative way, deepening their understanding of their relationship with Him.

Materials:
Blank sheets of paper
Pens, colored pencils, markers, or any other art supplies
Optional: Worship music or instrumental music for ambiance

Begin the session by creating a calm and reflective atmosphere. Play soft worship music in the background to set the
tone for personal reflection.

Introduction (5 minutes):

Gather the participants in a circle and briefly explain the purpose of the activity. Emphasize that this is a safe space
for personal expression and creativity.

Lead a short discussion on the meaning of having a relationship with God, referring to the key aspects mentioned
earlier.

Reflection (10 minutes):

Provide a few minutes of silent reflection for participants to consider their personal relationship with God and how it
has influenced their lives.

Encourage them to focus on moments of joy, gratitude, challenges, and growth they have experienced in their
journey with God.

Writing the Love Letter (30 minutes):

Distribute blank sheets of paper and art supplies to each participant.

Instruct them to write a love letter to God, expressing their emotions, thoughts, and gratitude towards Him.
Participants can choose to write a traditional letter or create an art piece that represents their feelings.

Remind them that this is a personal letter to God, and they are free to be open and honest in their expression.

Expressing Emotions and Gratitude (25 minutes):

Allow the participants ample time to write or create their love letters.

Walk around the room, providing individual support or encouragement as needed. If appropriate, engage in one-on-
one conversations with participants who may need extra support.

Sharing (Optional - 10 minutes):

Invite participants who feel comfortable to share parts of their love letter or reflections with the group. Emphasize
that sharing is entirely voluntary and that everyone's feelings and experiences are respected.

Closing Prayer or Reflection (5 minutes):

Gather the participants together for a closing prayer or moment of reflection. Thank God for the opportunity to
deepen their relationship with Him through this activity.

Encourage the participants to keep their love letters as a personal reminder of their journey with God and their
commitment to grow in their relationship with Him.