The Risk of Not Making Peace

Introduction:

Ice breaker: Have you ever felt jealous because your friend is more popular or more talented? What did you do then?

Teenagers today often face rivalry — in school, friendships, even social media. Jealousy steals our peace. Today we’ll learn from King Saul and David about the risk of not making peace and how to live with a peaceful heart like David.

Background:

After David defeated Goliath, everyone praised him. Saul, however, became jealous. In 1 Samuel 18:10–16, jealousy consumed Saul’s heart. He could not make peace with God’s plan.

The Hebrew word for “jealous” is qana — meaning “to burn with envy.” It shows how jealousy can destroy inner peace.

Point 1: Jealousy Destroys Peace (v.10–11)

Saul’s envy led him to violence. When the heart is ruled by jealousy, peace disappears.

Cross verse: James 3:16 — “Where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”

Application: When a friend succeeds, choose gratitude instead of jealousy. God has a special plan for you too.

Point 2: A Peaceful Heart Gains Love and Favor (v.12–15)

David stayed humble and calm, even when Saul attacked him. Everyone loved David, and God was with him.

The Hebrew word shalom means “complete peace” — not just the absence of conflict, but wholeness with God.

Cross verse: Matthew 5:9 — “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Application: Be a peacemaker at school. Calm others instead of joining arguments.

Point 3: God Gives Wisdom to the Peaceful (v.16)

David succeeded because God gave him wisdom. The Hebrew word sakhal means “to act with God’s understanding.”

Cross verse: Philippians 4:7 — “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Application: When you feel pressured, ask God for peace. Peace helps you think clearly and act wisely.

Teen Activity:

• Personal: Write the name of someone you need to forgive and pray for peace between you.
• Group: Share stories about making peace in hard times, and make a commitment to be a peacemaker this week.

Illustration:

Two best friends stopped talking because of jealousy over grades. When one decided to make peace, their friendship was restored — and both grew better together. Peace brings healing.

Conclusion:

Saul lost everything because he refused peace, but David was blessed because he chose peace.

Question: Who do you want to be today — Saul, or David?

Call to Action: Ask God to fill your heart with shalom — His peace — so you can bring joy and blessing to others.