Youth Group Lesson on Dating Character: Become Who You're Looking For

As a youth pastor, you're always seeking ways to help your students grow in their faith and relationships. This youth group lesson on dating character does just that by flipping the script on dating. Instead of searching for the perfect partner, students will learn to embody the traits they desire in others. This matters because it aligns their relationships with their identity in Christ and encourages genuine spiritual growth.

Why Dating Character Matters for Today's Students

In an era where social media often dictates self-worth, teens face immense pressure to conform to societal standards of dating, leaving them vulnerable to insecurity and comparison. According to Common Sense Media, the average teen spends nearly nine hours a day on social media, which can heavily influence their perception of relationships. This lesson series addresses these challenges by rooting students' self-worth in Christ, breaking the cycle of seeking validation through dating.

What Your Students Will Walk Away With

• A deeper understanding of godly character traits and how to cultivate them.
• The ability to evaluate relationships through a biblical lens.
• Practical steps to develop security and identity in Christ.
• Tools to pursue relationships that glorify God.
• Increased zeal for God and His purposes in their lives.

Series Overview: Rate My Date

This 4-week series, explore the full Rate My Date series, helps students focus on becoming the right person rather than just finding someone to date. Each week builds on the last, addressing key aspects such as zeal for God, kindness, security in Christ, and focus on one's calling. It's perfect for guiding students through a transformative journey in their winter youth group sessions.

Week 1: Zeal for God's House

The scripture Revelation 3:15 highlights the importance of being passionate about God's house. By challenging students to cultivate zeal, they become more aligned with Christ's character. Use an illustration of a 'perfect 10' to show the importance of becoming what one seeks. **Bottom Line**: Become a person who is zealous about the house of God.

Week 2: Choose Kindness

Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit, emphasized in Ephesians 4:32. This week, focus on the transformative power of kindness in relationships. Illustrate with a personal story of encouragement, emphasizing that love is inherently kind. **Bottom Line**: Become a person who treats people kindly.

Week 3: Security Found in God

Psalm 16:8 reveals that true security is found in God. Use the analogy of a rollercoaster seatbelt to illustrate the concept of spiritual security. Teach students that God's love expels fear, leading to healthier relationships. **Bottom Line**: Become a person who is secure in who God created you to be.

Week 4: Focused on Your Calling

1 Peter 2:9-10 calls students to focus on their divine purpose. Encourage them to view their relationships as part of their mission to glorify God. Use sports team analogies to illustrate teamwork and shared goals. **Bottom Line**: Become a person who is focused on the calling God has placed on your life.

Discussion Questions to Get Your Students Talking

1. What are the most important qualities you look for in someone to date?
2. Why do you think it's important to cultivate a zeal for God in our own lives before we look for someone else? Explain.
3. How would your life look different if you were only in friendships/relationships with people who operated in the kindness of God?
4. Have you ever struggled to feel secure in who God created you to be?
5. Are the relationships that you are in right now focused on bringing God glory?

How to Teach This Series

Set the room with a cozy, inviting atmosphere to encourage openness. Use the bumper video to grab attention and set the tone. Structure the teaching block with an engaging opener, scripture reading, and interactive discussion. Encourage participation by using smaller group breakouts, and adapt your approach based on group size, ensuring each student feels valued and heard.

What's Included When You Get the Full Series

You'll receive editable sermon outlines, series graphics, title slides, a bumper video, small group discussion questions, and social media graphics. Everything needed to preach this Wednesday is included. See everything in the Rate My Date series. Plus, members get access to all 200+ series.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does each dating character lesson take? Each lesson is designed to be completed within a 45-minute session, including teaching and discussion time.
2. What age group is this series designed for? This series is tailored for middle and high school students, focusing on relatable issues they face in dating and relationships.
3. Can I customize the outlines? Yes, the outlines are fully customizable to fit the specific needs and dynamics of your youth group.
4. What scripture does this series cover? Key scriptures include Revelation 3:15, John 2:17, Romans 12:9-13, and others.
5. Is there a free trial available? Yes, a free sample lesson is available to give you insight into the series content.
6. How can I engage students who are quieter during discussions? Encourage smaller group discussions and use open-ended questions to create a safe space for sharing.