BOLD FAITH: VOL 4 FACILITATOR GUIDE

FACILITATOR GUIDE

GROW IN CONFIDENCE. KNOW YOUR IDENTITY.

FOR GUYS OF FAITH

DARING PURSUIT

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JOURNEY

Journey 04: Facilitator Guide 3

BRAVE & BOLD Copyright © 2025-2026 Releasing Generations Published by Releasing Generations Printed in the United States of America All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

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Scripture quotations marked (NIrV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Reader’s Version®, NIrV® Copyright © 1995, 1996, 1998, 2014 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIrV” and “New International Reader’s Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Art Direction and Graphic Design by: Ahava Design, LLC. Photos by Unsplash and iStock.

TheBraveSeries.com Through The Brave Series, we are on a mission to help youth and adults of all ages overcome insecurities about their value and purpose. The Brave Series empowers teens and adults to:

The Brave Series is a publication of Explicit Movement, one of three facets of the Releasing Generations organization. You can learn more about Explicit Movement at Explicitmovement.org

• Grow in confidence and emotional health.

Our leadership team has decades of combined experience working with, serving, and supporting teens, young adults, parents, community leaders, and church leaders within many denominations locally and globally.

• Gain wisdom and vision for their future, enabling them to step into their purpose and pursue their dreams.

• Become aware and equipped to safeguard themselves and others from exploitation and sex trafficking victimization.

You are not alone in your struggles.

Learn more at TheBraveSeries.com or visit us at ReleasingGenerations.org

Brave & Bold Volume 04 (Faith) Facilitator Guide – 02/2026

Welcome to the Brave & Bold journey!

Thank you so much for taking the time to invest in your teen boys and in your relationship with them! Whether you go through this journey with just one teen or a group of teens, you will find this to be a transformational experience for all involved.

The articles will also be relevant to your personal growth.

Each chapter provides discussion questions and optional activities for you to use as a springboard. Organic discussion quesitons can also be asked after each article as an option. You can pick and choose which optional questions you would like to use and create your own. God may inspire you with wonderful, spontaneous questions as the discussion flows.

The activities provided for each chapter are also optional. As a teacher or parent, we encourage you to be creative and do other activities as you are are inspired by the Lord, as time permits! The lessons are typically geared for small groups, so please adjust the activity if you are doing a 1:1 mentorship.

Enjoy your journey!

BRAVE & BOLD FACILITATOR GUIDE

Table of Contents

Journey 04 Daring Pursuit

WELCOME .............................................. 05 IMPORTANT REMINDERS . . ........................ 08 FAQs .. .................................................... 08 EMPATHETIC RESPONSES .......................... ..........................11 THE BRAVE & BOLD CULMINATING. . ............ 12 CELEBRATION EVENT RIGHT OF PASSAGE EVENT FOR SONS ........ 13 OVERVIEW .............................................. 14 4-Volume Journey CHAPTER 1: PORNOGRAPHY ...................... 16 The Negative Effects of Pornography CHAPTER 2: OVERCOMING TRAUMA .......... 20 Understanding Trauma CHAPTER 3: SEXUAL VIOLENCE ................ 26 Addressing Sexual Violence CHAPTER 4: SEX TRAFFICKING ................. 34 Protect Yourself and Others from Victimization CHAPTER 5: THE BROTHERHOOD............... 38 The Value of Men Arising CHAPTER 6: RISING STRONG. . ................... 44 Onward with Vision and Purpose

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

FAQ WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THIS GUIDE?

• Be positive, affirming, and encouraging to your teens whenever possible!

• Be mindful NOT to dominate the conversation. Make it a point to listen more than you talk.

• Express gratitude when teens share good points.

• Make the discussion times as enjoyable and meaningful as possible so you look forward to your time together.

• Thank teens when they take a risk and share vulnerably with you.

• Remember, the discussions can be serious at times, and there may be unexpected expressions of raw emotion, but laughing together also strengthens the bond between you and your teens.

This is a powerful tool to mentor teen boys in life and leadership! The meaningful discussion and activity times after each chapter can strengthen your emotional connection with them, heart-to-heart.

Verbally processing the content with someone as mature as you will help teen boys to digest the material and have a deeper learning experience. Going through the material with someone also ensures they will complete the Brave & Bold Journey through Volume 4. Volume 4 has vital information that could help protect their lives from dangerous situations!

WHO SHOULD GO THROUGH THIS WITH A TEEN BOY?

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

Because Brave & Bold is for teen boys and the articles are mostly male perspectives covering issues especially relatable to men, it is more natural and comfortable for a dad or male teacher to go through the material with them. However, we do understand that in some cases, a mother or female teacher may want or need to go through this with their teens, which is fine.

IMPORTANT: THIS IS NOT A TIME TO GIVE ‘LECTURES’ OR GIVE ADVICE (UNLESS THE TEEN BOY ASKS FOR ADVICE).

We hope and pray that going through Brave & Bold together with your teen or group of teens will be a positive, enjoyable experience for everyone! As a teacher, parent, or mentor, you want to create a safe place where each teen boy can freely open up and share his thoughts and feelings.

*Going through this with a group of teen boys can also add beneficial and enriching perspectives to the discussions.

WHAT DO YOU DO IF A TEEN BOY SHARES SOMETHING SHOCKING, DISTURBING, OR UPSETTING TO YOU?

• This is not a time when your teens passively listen to your advice or teachings.

• This is not a time to quickly ‘correct’ the teens’ lines of thinking.

• Do not try to force your teens to agree with your perspectives.

• Seek to understand your teens first before seeking to be understood. However, in the discussions, there will be opportunities to pass along your wisdom naturally as you share your thoughts and life experiences.

Because the topics and discussion questions encourage vulnerability, your teens may muster the courage within themselves to share something that may shock, disturb, or upset you.

Prepare yourself now, so if this happens, you are ready to respond with compassion, understanding, and grace using self-control and NOT react in anger or shock. If you react in anger or shock, this will probably cause teen boys not to want to open up going forward. You want to do your best to create a safe place for teens to share.

If students feel that you really care about what they have to say, they will appreciate being heard. If you listen to them without negatively judging them, they will typically want to share things with you—which is the goal!

As a teacher or parent, it can be so easy to react in anger or shock when your teen shares something upsetting. The tendency

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can be to want to control the situation. You can be real and raw in your thoughts and feelings with God privately or with a trusted friend at a later time, but NOT in that moment with your teen. If you can stay calm and seek to understand, this will help build emotional connection.

Refer to the article following this introduction entitled Empathetic Responses That Promote Connection. Respond with kindness, gentleness, love, and empathy—not judgment. Pray silently and ask the Lord to give you the strength to keep a straight face and listen. Know that it took courage for your teen to share what he did. Affirm your teens and thank them for sharing vulnerably.

BECAUSE YOU WILL BE SHARING YOUR THOUGHTS AND LIFE EXPERIENCES IN THE DISCUSSIONS, HOW VULNERABLE SHOULD YOU BE WITH YOUR TEEN?

you cover a number of chapters within your retreat time that is reasonable for your students.

Creating a heart connection with your teens involves sharing some of your life experiences with them. You will create an atmosphere of vulnerability when you share stories from your life—your struggles, failures, and what you learned from them as they relate to the subject being discussed. It is so valuable for your teen to learn more about your story!

The discussion times could be anywhere from 30 to 60+ minutes depending on your available time. If the conversation goes longer than usual and you need to end it due to your schedule, you can always continue the conversation at your next meeting. *NOTE: If a teen is going through a particular struggle in the present, you can opt to skip ahead to a later chapter that addresses what he is currently going through. For example, if a close relative of a teen passed away, you could decide to skip ahead and go through the chapter on grieving in Volume 2. You can skip ahead to what is most relevant, then return back to the order we have laid out for the journey. Although the chapters are ordered to build upon each other, feel free to skip around to the most relevant chapters that will best serve your teen boy(s).

Ask the Lord for direction on what you can share as you prepare for the discussion. Letting your teens know that you are not perfect, made wrong choices, and experienced pain in your life will build that heart connection. The teen boys may particularly appreciate you sharing stories from your teen years.

WHAT IS A RECOMMENDED READING PLAN? There can be creative versatility in your reading plan depending on what works best for you in your context. Please check out thebraveseries.com website for more ideas and reach out to Michele and her team to create a tailored plan for your needs and schedule a meeting. We want to support you in whatever way we can.

THIS PUBLICATION IS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL BOYS. CAN A YOUNGER BOY GO THROUGH THIS? Because the first three volumes focus on growing a boy’s confidence and character and knowing his identity, you could easily go over Volumes 1-3 with younger boys using your judgment.

The chapters are fairly short and can easily be read in a short amount of time.

The older a boy is, the more mature he is, and the more he will have a deeper grasp of the lessons.

You may choose to go through a chapter per week or cover one or two chapters every two weeks. If you are in a retreat setting,

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Volume 4 covers the heavier subjects of sexual violence, sex trafficking, and pornography, which may not be as age-appropriate for younger boys (you may decide to pick and choose articles from Volume 4). However, as a teacher or parent, you can use your judgment since you want younger boys to be aware of online predators and the pornography issue, especially as some research has found that the average age of first exposure is around nine years old. You know your child best and can decide.

CAN A YOUNG ADULT MAN OR OLDER MAN BENEFIT FROM GOING THROUGH THIS BRAVE & BOLD JOURNEY? Although the target group for this publication is middle school and high school teen boys, we have found that this journey also speaks to men of all ages. Men will find quality content in the articles that support their personal growth! In Volume 4, the valuable information about pornography, sexual violence, sex trafficking, and other topics covered can be gleaned and passed on to young people through men who have gone through this Brave & Bold experience!

PLEASE REFRAIN FROM ASKING TO READ YOUR TEENS’ PRIVATE THOUGHTS THAT THEY SHARED ON THEIR JOURNAL PAGES. We strongly urge teachers and parents to honor each teen’s privacy regarding the interactive pages he filled out—unless he willingly wants to share his writings or art with you. We want every teen boy to be honest and vulnerable in his reflections and journaling. Knowing that others will be reading his private journaling without permission would greatly hinder the effectiveness of his experience.

BRAVE & BOLD SHOULD BE KEPT AND REFERRED TO EVEN IN YOUNG ADULT YEARS! We envision that the teen boys will keep Brave & Bold for decades to come as a manual for life and leadership, a tool, and a reference guide. Sex trafficking also happens during the young adult years and in colleges. We pray this will be a resource the readers will repeatedly refer to.

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EMPATHETIC RESPONSES THAT PROMOTE CONNECTION

By Vicky Wong, MSCP, LMFT, LMHC, NCC, and Michele Okimura It is not always easy to know what to say when someone tells you something very personal. There is power in words. Careless words keep people isolated and silent for years. Supportive words bring healing, restoration, and courage to discuss their burdens or experiences. Here are some tips on what to say vs what not to say when someone shares vulnerably.

After someone shares something vulnerable, it can be hurtful not to say anything, quickly change the subject, or make a joke/ comment to lighten the mood. When appropriate, a hand on the shoulder, a hand squeeze, or a hug can also communicate comfort and empathy. *Do not start immediately sharing your similar experience. This time is not about you. It is about listening to them. Giving advice and encouraging words comes later after they feel validated and heard. Be sensitive to when you feel they are ready for further input.

Vulnerability + Empathy = Breaks Shame.

WHAT NOT TO SAY: ▶ ▶ ▶ ▶ ▶ ▶

▶ ▶ ▶ ▶ ▶ ▶

You just need to let go and move on.

Other people have it worse than you.

You’re making too much of a big deal of this.

You just need to trust God and pray harder.

Are you just trying to get attention?

I can’t believe this really happened.

Tell me every detail and don’t leave anything out.

How come you just can’t forgive?

You are sinning if you just can’t forgive and forget!

Did you enjoy it? (referring to abuse) What are you going to do about it now?

At least…(minimizing issue)

WHAT TO SAY: ▶ It sounds like you are really feeling (angry, sad, excited, shocked, etc.) by what happened. ▶ I don’t know exactly what to say right now except that I’m here for you. ▶ I’m so sorry that happened to you. ▶ This must be so tough for you. ▶ You are very brave and courageous to talk about what happened. ▶ It took a lot of courage to talk about this, and I’m proud of you. ▶ I am here to help you through your sadness.

▶ We will walk through this together. ▶ I care about you. I am here to listen to you and help you in any way. ▶ I am so glad you are sharing this with me. ▶ You are not alone. ▶ I believe in you! ▶ I’m so sorry that awful thing happened to you.

You didn’t deserve this (abuse, hurtful situation) ▶ You are not to blame. This is not your fault. (if they were a victim of abuse) ▶ Healing is possible. You can be whole again.

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THE BRAVE & BOLD CULMINATING CELEBRATION EVENT This is an optional event that celebrates the completion of Brave & Bold, marking a milestone with gratitude and reflection. This can be a significant and special defining moment to launch the students into their futures. It could be held at a facility, a park, or a beach and include an activity like hiking, swimming, fishing, or zip-lining.

You can keep this event to include just you and the students; however, consider inviting parents to it. You can also have the students invite their father or father figure to it. Another option is to have students invite up to two mentors of their choice, which could include parents.

Prepare a simple program for the event. Please use the following options as a springboard to tailor the event.

• One of each student’s guests would be asked to prepare in advance and read a short letter of affirmation to the student in front of the audience after the student shared their reflections.

• As part of the program, have each student prepare a short speech they can read to the audience that can include reflections on the following questions:

• As the facilitator of the journey, share your reflections and affirmations.

▶ Self-Awareness: In what ways have you grown to view yourself differently/more positively? ▶ Testimony: How did this journey impact you? Share 1-2 ways you were changed by the Brave & Bold Journey. How have you grown? ▶ Regarding Connecting the Dots articles in Journey 4: Share one or more big takeaways after going through the articles on pornography, sexual violence, and sex trafficking. What new perspectives have you gained? ▶ Being Brave and Bold: In what ways has God encouraged you to be brave and bold through this journey?

• Celebrate around a meal and/or provide food or snack refreshments following the formal program.

• Depending on your time allotment, invite a guest speaker who can inspire, encourage, and affirm the students.

• Consider gifting the students the Dream Big Journal: Keys to Unlock your Dreams, a companion resource for their next steps found at MicheleOkimura.com, or consider going through the Dream Big Journal curriculum as a follow-up.

NOTE: With your students’ permission, please send their letters or a summary of their reflections, along with your feedback and/or endorsement, to info@thebraveseries. com. Thank you! We look forward to hearing from you and your students.

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FOR PARENTS: A RIGHT OF PASSAGE EVENT FOR YOUR TEEN SON We have added this activity that can be meaningful for your son/ spiritual son. We wanted to mention this idea to you now so you can envision the possibilities as you feel led—be creative!

This celebration event can help him to grow in confidence, know his value, and embrace his true identity!

gift that expresses what they appreciate about your son, how they believe God sees him, and/or how they see him. They are to attach a positive meaning to the item they gift to him, which they will share at the event. Encourage them to be creative!

Plan the details of the party using your creativity to make it special and memorable!

Be innovative and simply use this activity as a springboard to tailor it to how you want to bless your teen. Here are a few milestone ages that this activity can be applied to:

AT THE EVENT Sometime during the event, have a time when each of the invited guests presents their letter and gift to your teen son.

Each guest is to read his letter, give his wrapped gift to him (have your son open the gift), and explain the meaning behind the gift they gave. It is always special to have a time of prayer for the guest of honor to seal the formal time! Taking photos during the event, including a final group shot, is also special.

• In the Jewish culture, when a boy turns 12 or 13, a Bar Mitzvah celebration takes place as a coming-ofage ceremony into adulthood.

• When a boy graduates high school, this can also be a year to celebrate with this activity since he will be moving on to college, higher education, trade school, or the workforce.

AFTER THE EVENT

This event could be a gathering at home or part of an actionfilled day, such as hiking on a mountain trail or swimming at a beach. Consider incorporating your son’s favorite activity.

Collect the letters written to your son. You could place them into an album or a large envelope with any photos from the event.

WHO TO INVITE? You could invite a few or many men who are especially close to your teen son. They could be family members, spiritual fathers, or mentors. You can choose to involve your teen son in deciding who to invite to this event. This will be a powerful time of men affirming and loving on your teen son, welcoming him into the season of becoming a young man!

PREPARATION Ahead of time, ask the men invited to write a one-page (or so) letter to your teen son, expressing their love and sharing their wisdom as he enters a new season of his life. They can include a prayer and their hopes for him. Inform them that they will be reading their letter to him as part of the program at the event. Their letters could later be put into an album for your teen son to keep. Ask the invited guests to bring a symbolic

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The Brave & Bold Journey 4-Volume Book Overview

Journey 01

Journey 02

HE IS BRAVE & BOLD Defining What is Brave & Bold

LET IT GO The Value of Forgiveness

KNOW YOURSELF Becoming Self-Aware

GOOD GRIEF Dealing with Losses in Life

STAND FIRM Being Secure and Confident

UNRAVELLING EMOTIONS Navigating Anger, Fear, and Anxiety

CONNECTING WITH GOD Growing in Relationship with God

STAY THE COURSE Persevering Through Hardships

YOUR DESIGN Discovering Your Uniqueness

PARENTS AND YOU Exploring the Impact of Parents

BORN TO CREATE Activating Your Creativity

FORGED IN COMMUNITY The Value of Belonging to a Community

Discover Purpose

Dig Deeper

FREEDOM TO DREAM Dreaming Big for Your Life

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Journey 03

Journey 04

BUILDING YOUR CORE Establishing Character

PORNOGR APHY........................

APHY ........................ 14 The Negative Effects of Pornography

VALUES TO LIVE BY Embracing Key Values for Success

OVERCOMING TR AUMA............

AUMA ............ 30 Understanding Trauma

LEADERSHIP Becoming an Effective Leader

SEXUAL VIOLENCE. . ..................... 42 Addressing Sexual Violence

FRIENDSHIP Building Healthy Friendships

SEX TRAFFICKING.. ...................... 58 Protect Yourself and Others from Victimization

GUYS AND GIRLS Honoring Girls and Women

THE BROTHERHOOD. . ................... 78 The Value of Men Arising

HE PROTECTS Guarding, Defending, and Supporting Others

RISING STRONG. . ......................... 90 Onward with Vision and Purpose

Develop Foundation

Daring Pursuit

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PORNOGRAPHY

CHAPTER 01 • PAGES 14 - 29

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

The Negative Effects of Pornography • In this chapter, which article stood out to you the most, and why? What was a takeaway from this chapter?

• What were your thoughts about the topic of pornography before reading this chapter? Did your viewpoint change, or did the articles just reinforce what you already knew? If so, how did it change?

• What is something new you learned about pornography?

• Recognize that objectification (looking at people and treating people as objects rather than human beings with feelings and thoughts) reduces human dignity. How does pornography objectify people, as shared in the first article in this chapter?

• There is a saying, “Porn kills love,” that the Fight the New Drug organization has used since it began. In what ways do you think porn kills love or impacts personal identity and relationships?

• Over the years, there has been a growing number of teens struggling with a pornography addiction, both guys and girls. Without naming names, what is your general observation of teens watching porn? Why do you think that is?

• What factors in society and culture do you think contribute to the pornography epidemic?

• We want to be a safe place, a safe family, and a safe church family where people can get help if they are struggling with pornography. What contributes to creating a safe culture where people can feel comfortable voicing their struggles and asking for help?

ACTIVITIES

Hugh Hefner’s Backstory: Seeking Love Materials Needed: • YouTube Video (8:18): Streams Studio. (2024, January 20). Searching for love the story of Playboy’s founder - Karen Covell [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu. be/1Ueolsdn2Go?si=XB8iPxnrjmgPjNp9 • Bibles

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Instructions: 1. Open the discussion by asking, “How many of you know who Hugh Hefner is? Who was he?”

2. Explain that Hugh Hefner was the founder of Playboy Magazine. Hugh Hefner was pivotal in spreading pornography throughout America.

Ask “Have any of you ever wondered WHY he was so moved and motivated to spread pornography?”

Discuss how many times we look at the sinful, negative things that people do and we judge them. But we often judge without knowing their backstory. Perhaps once we know a person’s story, our judgment can be replaced with compassion and prayer.

3. Introduce the 8 minute video interview of Hugh Hefner by Karen Covell, the founder of Hollywood Prayer Network. Then, show the video.

4. Discuss the takeaways that you and the students have. How did knowing Hugh’s backstory impact their view on pornography and how the enemy will use a person’s unehealed trauma and brokenness to steer them in the wrong direction.

5. Discuss how watching pornography is considered similar to “falling into the hands of a prostitute” because both are forms of sexual immorality (porneia) that lead to spiritual, emotional, and potentially physical destruction, using deception and an appearance of “no strings attached” to lure individuals into a “deep pit”.

6. Discuss the following connections to verses in Proverbs and pornography viewing. Have students read Bible references: Deception and Illusion: The “wayward wife” or “prostitute” in Proverbs uses flattering words and allurement to hide the destructive consequences of her actions. Similarly, pornography offers a powerful illusion of intimacy and pleasure without the commitment of a real relationship, making it seem harmless or even beneficial, but ultimately it is a “cheap counterfeit”.

Refer to deceptive alluring words of a prostitute in Proverbs 7:10-23 Destruction of Self: Proverbs states that a person who commits adultery “destroys himself ” and “lacks sense”.

Both prostitution and pornography are seen as leading to personal ruin, bringing disgrace and potentially costing a man his life or all his wealth. This destruction manifests in various ways, including impaired mental function, damaged relationships, and a guilt-ridden relationship with God. Refer to Proverbs 5:3-5.

A “Deep Pit” that Traps: Proverbs 23:27-28 explicitly states, “For a prostitute is a deep pit and a wayward wife is a narrow well; she lies in wait like a bandit and increases the unfaithful among men”. Pornography is described in modern biblical commentary as an equivalent “deep pit” that is easy to fall into but very difficult to climb out of, trapping the individual in a cycle of addiction and shame.

Objectification and Selfishness: Explain that both acts remove sexuality from its intended relational context (marriage) and convert it into a self-serving indulgence. The prostitute is used as an object for sexual gratification, and pornography fundamentally objectifies individuals for the viewer’s sole pleasure, leading to a focus on selfish desire rather than mutual love and respect.

Spiritual and Moral Corruption: Indulging in either is viewed as an act of “porneia,” a broad Greek term in the New Testament for unlawful sexual intercourse or sexual immorality, which results in sin and a separation from God. 7. Discuss how God cares deeply to set people free from pornography to the live the abundant life with fullness of joy that He desire for each person.

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8. Discuss how God wants us to have joy, pleasure, and delight in life that only He can give - pleasures that fulfill and satifsfy!

“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Psalm 16:11 NIV 9. Close in prayer as a group. Pray for God’s healing for those looking to pornography as a means to satisfy their longings and desires - as Hugh Hefner once did - however his whole life he could not find true love through pornography. God is the only One who can fill our emptiness and heal our pain. He can enable us to thrive in life!

Brain Facts Materials Needed: • smartphone or laptop, with internet access to gather information on the negative effects of pornography on the brain and/or relationships • paper for notes, or a laptop for recording facts in a document

Instructions: 1. Have the participants research the negative effects of pornography on the brain and/or relationships. They can read articles and research studies to gather interesting and helpful information. You can decide to have participants work in pairs or individually. *ANOTHER OPTION: You can have the participants visit: https://fightthenewdrug.org and read articles on their site.

2. You can give them 15-30 minutes to gather the information.

3. In the larger group, have a time of sharing their findings and facts.

4. Discuss what was highlighted to them when learning about the negative consequences of watching pornography.

Porn Vs. Love Materials Needed: • Bible or Bible apps to find scripture • preview the video on: https://fightthenewdrug.org under videos entitled Brain Heart World. (*As a leader, use your judgment to watch the video together with the teen guys. This would be suitable for many teen guys to watch.)

Instructions: 1. Discuss how sexual purity is not just about doing the right things, but it is a matter of the heart. Look at the following verses: Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 6:22-23, Matthew 5:28, and Matthew 23:26.

2. Discuss: ▶ Why is it so important to be mindful about what we set our eyes on? Our mind on? ▶ Share an example of how what we ‘feed’ our eyes can influence our minds and our hearts.

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3. If you watched the video Brain Heart World together, discuss your takeaways.

Digital Freedom: Unplugging The Pipeline Materials Needed: • paper pens

Instructions: 1. Introduce the lesson by saying, “Hey, guys. I want to talk about something heavy, but something every single one of us deals with: the battle for what you think about when you’re alone. We’re all wired for connection, and sometimes, that wiring gets twisted. We’re going to talk about porn today—not to shame anyone, but to arm you for the fight. This temptation isn’t a lack of desire for God; it’s a symptom of a mind that hasn’t been fed the right stuff, and a device that’s too easily led to the wrong places.”

2. Discuss: ▶ Think of your phone/computer like a powerful firehose. It can spray fresh, clean water or sewage. When you’re bored, stressed, or tired, what’s the easiest thing to click or search? ▶ What do you usually do in your first 15 minutes awake or your last 15 minutes before bed? Why are these “quiet moments” the most dangerous for temptation? (Acknowledge that boredom and stress are huge triggers.) ▶ Pornography is not about pleasure; it’s about escape and isolation. It’s a cheap, digital imitation of true intimacy and connection that leaves you emptier than when you started.

3. Explain the following in introducing the group project: “The hardest part of detoxing from devices and the media is the moment the old habit kicks in and you reach for the phone. We need a weapon for that moment that isn’t digital. We’re going to create a simple, physical (printed) UNPLUGGED Devotional Booklet—a 7-day (or could be more days depending on the number of contributors) manual written by us, for us.”

4. Explain the assignment: Each student will be assigned to submit one entry (Day 1 through Day ___) and must contribute the following elements: ▶ Title: A catchy, relevant title (e.g., Day 3: The Freedom of the Fire Exit, Day 5: Wired for War). ▶ Key Scripture: One solid, powerful verse or short passage that speaks to identity, purity, temptation, or the mind, or anything positive to meditate on. (e.g., Psalm 119:11, James 1:14, 1 Corinthians 6:18). ▶ Devotional Thought (2-7 sentences max): A short, powerful, and relatable thought on the assigned theme. It should be encouraging and direct, written from each of their perspective.

Explain that each submission will be compiled and reproduced into a simple booklet (you, as the teacher, will type each one out, compile it, and make simple copies stapled or bound, for each student).

5. On a separate day, once the booklets are completed, pass them out to each student. Share this challenge: “I’m challenging every single one of you to commit to a 48-Hour Media Fast next weekend (or whenever works best for you). No non-essential screens or social media—just the basics!

When you feel that urge to pick up the phone, instead, open the Bible, spend 5 minutes praying, or read through our UNPLUGGED Devotional we put together. Let’s prove to ourselves that our identity is not linked to our signal strength.”

6. Closing Prayer: Pray specifically for protection over the guys’ minds, for strength when they feel isolated, and for the courage to choose accountability.

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OVERCOMING TRAUMA CHAPTER 02 • PAGES 30 - 41

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Understanding Trauma • What is a takeaway you had from this chapter?

• The first article on trauma uses the “tiger” analogy. Discuss how under intense pressure (a bad grade, a difficult conflict, or deep shame), a person can respond with one of the three F’s—Fight (anger/arguing), Flight (escaping/ scrolling), or Freeze (zoning out/numbness). Which one does each teen personally feel most tempted to rely on?

• Trauma is called an “emotional scar.” Guys are often masters at hiding scars. What is one healthy action we can take as a group class or group to make our space feel safer to admit we have a “scar” than it is to keep wearing a “mask?”

• Satan wants to use your pain to destroy you, but God can use it to create a path for overcoming. Without sharing the specifics of a hardship, can you share how God has used a past struggle to make you more compassionate, patient, or stronger today?

• Friends can best help show support by being “patient, listening, and encouraging. Which of those three things is the hardest for you to give to a friend who is going through a tough time, and why?

• The article on suicide started with a massive dilemma: An 8th grader was forced to promise not to tell anyone that his friend wanted to commit suicide. As guys, we value loyalty and keeping secrets, but this scenario flips the script. If you were in that student’s shoes, why do you think it is so hard to break that promise, and how would you gather the courage to speak up knowing your friend might be angry with you?”

• Teenagers are dealing with body changes, navigating through feelings of worthiness, meeting expectations, and so many other issues. Looking at the pressures listed in the article on suicide (physical appearance, school/ parents, social media, dating), which one do you think is the biggest source of stress for guys your age right now, and why?”

• This chapter lists 10 things you can do if you are the one emotionally struggling—things like limiting social media, exercising, or finding a creative outlet. If you hit the bottom of that roller coaster, which two items from that list would be in your personal ‘Battle Plan’ to help you get your head back in the game?”

• If you feel comfortable sharing briefly, how many of you know of someone who committed suicide? Discuss how painful that can be for those left behind, and discuss that as God’s children, we can turn to God for the hope we need to face the future - and there is no shame in seeking help through counseling if the struggle is intense! Emphasize how we need others to walk with us through tough times.

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ACTIVITIES

The Power Of The Pause Materials Needed: • Bible for each teen

Instructions: 1. Begin the discussion, “You’ve heard the phrase, ‘What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.’ That’s only half true. What doesn’t kill you can leave you with scars, and those scars often make us feel defensive, angry, or numb. Today, we’re talking about those hidden scars—trauma. Trauma isn’t just one huge event (like a wreck or loss); it can be a slow, steady stream of stress, emotional pain, or repeated difficulty. It’s not a weakness; it’s a completely normal response to an abnormal situation. Real strength is learning how to deal with that hurt, not hide it.”

2. Discuss: “If you sprain your ankle, you put ice on it. If your heart or mind gets hurt, what do you usually do?”

3. Read Psalm 34:18 NIV: (“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”). Ask, “What does this verse tell you about God’s posture toward our pain?”

4. Review the 3 Fs: Fight, Flight, or Freeze. Explain, “Your brain has a built-in alarm system—the amygdala—whose job is to keep you alive. When you sense a threat (whether it’s a physical threat or an intense emotional one), your body releases adrenaline and cortisol, and you automatically choose one of three survival responses. God created us with these defense mechanisms. This is your body trying to protect you. The problem is, this system often gets stuck ‘ON’ long after the danger is over.”

Review the following and share any personal examples from your life or examples you know of: ▶ FIGHT (The Explosion): This isn’t just throwing punches. It’s snapping at your parents, road rage, punching a wall, or needing to control everything around you because you feel out of control inside. ▶ FLIGHT (The Eject Button): This is running away. For you, it probably looks like numbing out.

Doom-scrolling for 3 hours, gaming until 4 AM to avoid thinking, or ghosting people when things get awkward. ▶ FREEZE (The Glitch): The ‘Blue Screen of Death.’ You shut down. You feel numb. You know you have stuff to do, but you literally can’t make yourself move. You’re paralyzed by the pressure.

5. Explain, “When your alarm system is stuck on ‘ON,’ your brain is trapped in the past or future. The goal is to bring your mind back to the present moment, where you are safe and where God is present. We call this ‘grounding’ or ‘anchoring.’”

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6. Practicing the Grounding Anchor Technique: Preparation: Have everyone close their eyes for a moment and take three deep breaths—in for 4, hold for 4, out for 6.

The Anchor (5-4-3-2-1 Technique): Guide them through this slowly.

STEP

FOCUS

5

SIGHT

4

TOUCH

3

HEAR

2

SMELL

1

TASTE

ACTION Open your eyes. Name five things you can see right now (e.g., a chair, the light fixture, a crack in the wall, my shoe, my friend’s hat).

Name four things you can physically feel (e.g., the texture of my jeans, the smooth floor, my watch on my wrist, the chair under my butt).

Name three things you can hear (e.g., the air conditioning, someone breathing, traffic outside).

Name two things you can smell (e.g., the pizza from earlier, the cleaning product on the floor.

Name one thing you can taste (e.g., my gum, water, the lingering flavor)

7. Discuss: ▶ How did that exercise feel? (It might feel weird, but it works!) ▶ Why is focusing on your senses a spiritual discipline? (Because it forces you to acknowledge the reality of the present, rather than the memory of the past or the anxiety of the future.)

8. Share this challenge, “Trauma tries to tell you that you are permanently broken or alone. But the Bible tells us that hope is not a feeling; it is a certainty based on who God is.”

9. Read Romans 5:3-5 to see that suffering leads to perseverance, which leads to character, which leads to HOPE.” 10. Share this suggested action step: “Next time you feel Fight, Flight, or Freeze kick in, use your Anchor technique to get grounded, and then immediately remind yourself of one unshakeable truth about God.” Share the following tips: ▶ If you feel Fight (Anger/Control), remind yourself: God is my Defender. ▶ If you feel Flight (Escape/Avoidance), remind yourself: God is my Refuge and Strength (Psalm 46:1). ▶ If you feel Freeze (Numbness/Paralysis), remind yourself: God is my Life and my Portion (Psalm 73:26).

11. Closing Prayer: Pray for the guys to feel safe in their vulnerability, for the Holy Spirit to guide them when their alarm systems go off, and for the courage to talk to a trusted adult or friend when the pain feels too heavy.

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Be The Spotter Materials Needed: • heavy objects, such as a backpack full of books, a water jug, a dumbbell, sandbags, etc.

• Bibles

Instructions: 1. Introduce The Warm-Up: The Wall-Sit Challenge: ▶ Line everyone up against a sturdy wall. ▶ Tell them to drop into a wall sit. ▶ The Twist: Hand the first few guys heavy objects. Every 30 seconds, they have to pass the weight to the guy next to them while holding the sit. ▶ As legs start shaking and guys start dropping, shout encouragement. ▶ Eventually, everyone’s legs fail. It doesn’t matter how strong you are; eventually, gravity wins.

2. Facilitate by sharing, “Look around. Some of you are athletes, some of you are tough, but every single one of you hit a point where you couldn’t hold the weight anymore. In the gym, if you’re bench pressing your max weight and your muscles fail, what happens if you’re alone? The bar crushes your throat. You die.

But if you have a Spotter, you can push to your limit safely. If you fail, the Spotter grabs the bar. Today, we’re talking about the mental weight—depression and suicide. When the weight of life crushes a friend, are you just watching from the sidelines, or are you ready to spot him?”

3. Discuss how often, especially as guys, we don’t easily talk about feelings. But the Bible gives us a different code.

4. Read: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NLT) “Two people are better than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.”

5. Introduce the story of Elijah as a case study on depression and hopelessness (1 Kings 19). Have the students read this story.

Then share: “You guys know Elijah? The prophet who called down fire from heaven? Ultimate warrior of the faith. But in 1 Kings 19, right after his biggest victory, he ran into the wilderness, sat under a tree, and prayed that he might die.

He was done. He was suicidal. God didn’t send lightning to zap him for being weak. God sent an angel to give him food and let him sleep. Then, God gave him a friend named Elisha to walk with him. Even the strongest men in the Bible hit the bottom. Being depressed doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human. Being a friend means you don’t let them stay under that tree alone.”

6. Ask, “So what do you do if your friend talks about wanting to die, or jokes about dying, or is acting unusually, and you suspect they are struggling with hopelessness? How do you be a friend to them?”

7. Introduce the case study on the Rock: “You guys know Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson? The biggest action star on the planet. Literal tough guy.

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He has been open about his battle with depression. When he was young, he watched his mom try to walk into traffic because she was so hopeless. He pulled her back—he was her spotter that day. Later, his dream of playing in the NFL was crushed, and he hit a low point where he didn’t want to do anything or go anywhere. He said, ‘I reached a point where I didn’t want to do a thing or go anywhere. I was crying constantly.’

If The Rock can hit rock bottom, so can you. So can your best friend. Being depressed doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human. Being a friend means you don’t let your bro stay at rock bottom alone.”

8. Introduce the S.P.O.T. Protocol. Ask, “So what do you do if your friend talks about wanting to die, or jokes about dying, or is acting unusually, and you suspect they are struggling with hopelessness? How do you be a friend to them?”

Write the word SPOT on a whiteboard or large paper up front. You will now discuss the meaning of each letter of this acronym.

Remind them that they can be the Spotter. Introduce this protocol they can use using the acronym S.P.O.T. S - See the Weight (Recognize the Signs) Guys usually don’t cry when they are depressed. We get angry, or we go quiet. ▶ Look for: Rage/snapping at people, withdrawing (leaving the group chat, ghosting plans), risky stuff (driving too fast, substance abuse), or dark/cynical jokes about ‘not being here.’ ▶ The Rule: Trust your gut. If something feels off, it is.

P - Press In (Ask the Question) This is the hardest part. You have to push past the awkwardness. ▶ Don’t ask: “Are you good?” (They will always say, “I’m fine.”) ▶ Do say: “Hey man, you haven’t been yourself lately. You seem down and I’m actually worried about you. Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” ▶ Myth-Buster: Asking about suicide does NOT plant the idea in their head. It actually relieves the pressure because they finally don’t have to hide it.

O - Offer Cover (Stay with Them) If they say “yes” or admit they are struggling with suicidal thoughts or hurting themselves: ▶ Do not leave them alone. Seek a trusted adult for help and guidance if needed, even if your friend does not want to seek help. Remember, you are not expected to be completely responsible for your friend - you need support too. ▶ Say: “I’ve got you. I’m not going anywhere. We are going to figure this out.” ▶ Listen without fixing: You don’t have to fix it. You aren’t a therapist. You can communicate your support, which can mean a lot. You can say, “I’m here. I’ve got you. I’m here for you.

Continued

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T - Tag Out (Get an Adult) This is where the ‘Bro Code’ dies so your friend can live. Because you are not a professional mental health counselor, it can feel overwhelming when trying to give support to a friend going through a tough emotional state. Seek a trusted adult for help and guidance. ▶ The Rule: If a life is at risk, secrecy is over. ▶ You can say something like: “I respect and care for you too much to let you die. I can’t handle this alone.

We need to go talk to [Youth Pastor/Coach/Counselor] right now. I’ll walk with you.” ▶ If they refuse, YOU go tell the adult anyway. Better to have a friend who is alive and mad at you than a friend who hurts themselves or is gone.

9. Transition to practicing navigating through real-life situations. Split the guys into groups of 3. Read the following text message scenario. Have them decide what they would text back and what they would do.

The Scenario: It’s 11:30 PM. Your friend Jason, who recently got cut from the varsity team and broke up with his girlfriend, sends this text to the group chat: “I’m just tired of it all, honestly. You guys are better off without me dragging the vibe down. Peace.” Then he leaves the group chat and won’t answer his phone.

10. Discuss ▶ Is this serious, or is he just looking for attention? (Answer: Always treat it as serious). ▶ What is your immediate move? ▶ Who do you call? ▶ Discuss the correct actions (Call him repeatedly, call his parents, call the police if you believe immediate danger is present).

11. Remind the students that: ▶ You are not their savior. You can be a friend, a spotter, and a brother, but you cannot fix their soul. Only Jesus can do that. Your job is to get them to the source of help.. ▶ There is hope. Emotions feel very real, but they can quickly change. Seasons of depression come to an end and are followed by seasons of hope - if we persevere.

12. (optional) Ask the group to share other types of possible scenarios that teens face with depressed friends.

Discuss positive, helpful ways to respond in such situations.

13. Call to Action: Ask the teens to pull out their smartphones and open their contacts. Ask them to save the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in their phone right then. They call it ‘Lifeline.’ Explain that if any of them are hurting tonight, invite them to come talk to one of the leaders. Explain how we want to be there for each other.

14. Closing Huddle: Say, “Lord, give these men eyes to see the hurting. Give them the guts to ask the hard questions. And God, for the guy in this room who feels like he’s drowning right now—remind him that his story isn’t over. Amen.”

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SEXUAL VIOLENCE

CHAPTER 03 • PAGES 42 - 55

*BEFORE DISCUSSING, PLEASE READ THIS IMPORTANT NOTICE! Please check your state laws to see if you are a mandated reporter of sexual violence. If you are a mandated reporter, then if a minor shares with you that they were or are being sexually abused, you are mandated to report this to government authorities.

If you are NOT a family member or relative of the teen boy or boys in your 1:1 mentorship or small group, please mention this BEFORE your discussion: If any of the boys have been sexually abused in their past (even if they were inappropriately touched) or are currently being abused, then please instruct them to NOT share about this in the group. This is private information that you would not want the guys in your small group to have to navigate through.

You want to handle such a sensitive situation as best you can.

Instead, encourage them to tell a trusted family member, relative, or trusted adult to get help. If you are in a 1:1 mentorship and the teen boy wants to share with you as a trusted adult or family member, then respond compassionately and be prepared to help.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Addressing Sexual Violence • What new facts did you learn about sexual abuse? Remind the guys that sexual violence and trauma can range from being inappropriately touched to more aggressive situations.

• A person can be sexually abused not only by adults, but by peers or friends. Some research indicates that possibly as many as 1 in 3 men have been sexually abused in some way in their lifetime. What are some comments or reflections you have about such facts?

• Have you ever had a situation—online or in person—where your gut told you “nope,” but you ignored it? What happened, and why do you think we sometimes ignore our own instincts?

• We often hear about grooming or exploitation happening to girls, but this article makes it clear that it happens to guys, too (like sextortion or financial scams). Why do you think guys are often hesitant to admit they are being manipulated or pressured?

• The first article describes “Romantic Ultimatums” (e.g., “If you really loved me, you’d do this”). If a girl or a friend uses that line on you, the article says it’s manipulation, not love. How do you respond to that in the heat of the moment without losing your cool? (Have the group share possible responses - what words they can use when in that situation to resist the pressure.)

• If you saw a friend being pressured—either by a partner or an older person—would you speak up? What risks would you be afraid of?

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• Be honest: Does it annoy you when someone touches your phone or posts a bad pic of you without asking? Why is that small stuff actually “training” for the big stuff?

Leader’s Note: Help them see that if they can’t respect a “no” regarding a phone, they won’t respect a “no” regarding a body.

• The article on consent ends with: “Real respect always honors your ‘no.’ Real love waits for your ‘yes.’” How is this definition of “Real Love” different from what you see in movies, music videos, or on social media?

• After reading Wounded But Not Shattered: Finding Jami, parts one and two, what are your main takeaways from the article? What does the article reveal about who God is? Did this build your faith? If so, how so?

• The article on healing sexual trauma says, “It is hard to heal yourself in isolation.” Why is the “Lone Wolf ” mentality actually the most dangerous way to handle trauma? Who benefits when we stay silent? Leader’s Note: Silence protects the abuser. Breaking the silence protects the victim.

ACTIVITIES

The Captain and The Towel Materials Needed: • red, yellow, and green construction paper (or distinct objects/flags) • masking tape (to mark a line on the floor) • smartphones (for the closing activity) • whiteboard/Markers • (optional) Video from YouTube: Fight Child Abuse. (2020. May 12). Teenagers and Sexual Abuse [Video]. YouTube. https:// youtu.be/aOwmLMnZwi4?si=KVHmw2wRkPgYUZo2

Instructions: 1. SET UP for warm-up activity: Place a long line of masking tape on the floor.

2. Ask for two volunteers. Have Volunteer A stand on the line. Have Volunteer B start 15 feet away.

3. Tell Volunteer B to walk slowly toward Volunteer A. Volunteer A must hold up their hand and say “Stop” the moment they feel Volunteer B is “too close” for comfort.

4. Do this a few times with different pairs. Then, have Volunteer B run toward A, or approach A from behind.

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5. The Debrief: After the warm-up activity, ask the group: ▶ “Why did some of you say ‘stop’ sooner than others?” (Answer: Everyone’s boundaries are different). ▶ “How did it feel when they ran at you versus walking?” (Answer: Aggression typically creates fear/pressure). ▶ Leader connection to Article: “The article we read says boundaries are your personal ‘no-go zones.’ Today, we’re talking about why you have the right to that ‘Stop’ line—physically, digitally, and emotionally.”

6. Discuss how each person is worthy of dignity and because of this fact, each person deserves to be safe.

7. Have the teens review the following verses referring to the enemy and his tactics: ▶ HE IS A LIAR: “When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44 NIV ▶ HE IS SEEKING TO DESTROY PEOPLE: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8 NIV ▶ HE PRETENDS TO BE GOOD INITIALLY: “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” 2 Corinthians 11:14 ▶ HE ACCUSES: “For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.” Revelations 12:10 NIV ▶ HE STEALS AND KILLS: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NIV 8. Write the following on the whiteboard, or put the following into a handout for the teens to refer to. Discuss how they are related to the tactics of the enemy: THE LONG CON (Grooming): ▶ The Tactic: They don’t start with abuse; they start with friendship. They give you gifts (skins, money, subs), compliments, or make you feel ‘mature.’ ▶ The Red Flag: Secrecy. “Don’t tell your parents/friends I gave you this.” If they ask you to hide it, they are buying your silence.

THE PRESSURE (Coercion): ▶ The Tactic: They make you feel like you ‘owe’ them. ▶ The Script: “If you really liked me, you’d do this.” “Don’t be a loser, everyone else is doing it.” ▶ The Truth: Manipulation is not affection. If you have to be talked into it, it’s not consent.

THE BLACKMAIL (Sextortion): ▶ The Tactic: This is huge in gaming and DMs right now. You send a nude or compromising pic. Suddenly, the ‘girl’ (who is often a grown man or a bot) says, “Pay me, or I send this to your friends list/school/mom.” ▶ The Defense: Never pay. They will ask for more. Block, report, and tell an adult immediately.

THE GASLIGHT (The Accuser): ▶ The Tactic: Making you think you are the crazy one for having a boundary. “You’re overreacting.” “Can’t you take a joke?” ▶ The Truth: Trust your gut, not their words.

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9. (Optional) Play the YouTube video: “Teenagers and Sexual Abuse” Discuss: “What was the one move the abuser made that tricked the victim?”

10. Introduce the Interactive Activity – “Red Flag / Green Flag” Setup: Designate one side of the room as “Green Flag” (Healthy/Safe) and the other side as “Red Flag” (Danger/ Manipulation). The middle is “Yellow” (Caution/Check-in).

11. Share that you, as the facilitator, will read a scenario to help them practice good discernment. The students are to move to the zone that matches the situation. Be ready to explain why.”

Scenarios: ▶ The Gamer: You meet a guy online who is really good at a game you play. He gifts you a rare skin but messages you: “Hey, don’t tell your parents I bought this for you; they might get mad.”

(Answer: RED FLAG. Secrecy + Gifts = Grooming behavior.) ▶ The Partner: You’re hanging out with a partner you like. You start getting a bit physical, but suddenly your partner goes stiff and quiet. They have not said “no.”

(Answer: RED FLAG. Consent must be enthusiastic. Silence is not a yes. You stop immediately.) ▶ The Ultimatum: Your partner says, “My ex used to do [X] with me. If you aren’t willing to do it, maybe we aren’t compatible.”

(Answer: RED FLAG. This is coercion/manipulation, not love.) ▶ The Gut Check: You’re at a party. Nothing bad has happened, but you get a weird, heavy feeling in your stomach that says, “Leave.”

(Answer: GREEN FLAG on the action of leaving / RED FLAG on the situation. Trust your gut. The article says: “If something feels off, it probably is.”) ▶ The Share: You want to share a funny photo of your friend on your story. You show it to him and ask, “You cool if I post this?” He laughs and says, “Yeah, go for it.”

(Answer: GREEN FLAG. Clear consent.)

12. (optional) Tell everyone to take out their phones. Say, “We are doing two things right now to give you more security.” ▶ Action 1 (The Contact): “Everyone, open a new contact. Name it ‘Help Line.’ Put this number in: 1-800-656-4673 for the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN). You might never need it, or a friend might need it in a panic at 2 AM. Be the guy who is ready.” ▶ Action 2 (The Cleanse): “Take 60 seconds right now. Look at your DMs, Snap, or Discord. Is there anyone who gives you a weird vibe? Someone asking for pics? Someone asking too many personal questions? Block them. Right now. You don’t owe them an explanation. Protect your peace.”

13. Share in closing along these lines: “Gentlemen, the world tells you that being a man is about how much you can ‘get’— money, girls, status. But the article and our faith tell us a different story. Real strength isn’t about crossing boundaries; it’s about respecting them. Real strength is having the courage to speak up when you see something shady happening to a friend.

Real strength is knowing you are valuable enough to say ‘No’ and walk away from manipulation. God gave you that ‘gut feeling’—that’s the Holy Spirit giving you discernment. Use it.”

Prayer: “Lord, thank you for these men. I pray against the spirit of fear. Give them a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. Protect their minds and hearts online and in person. Give them the courage to set boundaries and the wisdom to recognize when others are trying to exploit them. Let them be leaders who create a culture of respect. Amen.”

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God’s Healing Power Materials Needed: • a sturdy backpack and several heavy books or rocks

Instructions: 1. Introduce the lesson with an analogy: “Imagine you buy a used truck. Two weeks later, the ‘Check Engine’ light comes on, and you hear a weird grinding noise. If you park that truck in a garage and leave it there for five years, will it be fixed when you come back?”

2. Explain that obviously, the answer is “No.” It will likely be worse (rust, dead battery, seized engine).

Say: “We all know that time doesn’t fix a truck. Mechanics fix trucks. Tools fix trucks. But for some reason, when it comes to our own lives—our trauma, our bad memories, or things that have happened to us—we believe a lie. We think, ‘If I just ignore this and wait long enough, it will go away.’”

3. Discuss how healing takes time and process. With God’s help, healing is possible! Connect the following verses to the process of healing. Be open to organic conversations.: The Lie: “Just Get Over It”: Remind the students that the article on healing stated: “Time doesn’t heal all wounds...

Memories and emotions can stay frozen in time... Those feelings and details can still be as vivid, scary, and disturbing today as they were when the abuse first happened.”

Have students read the Bible Verse: Psalm 32:3 (NLT) – “When I refused to confess my sin [or pain], my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long.”

Explain, “King David—a warrior—admitted that when he kept silent, he didn’t get tougher; he got weaker. Silence acts like an infection. It can eat you up from the inside out.”

Ask: Why is the pressure to “just get over it” so strong for guys specifically?

4. Discuss the solution: God as the healer.

The article on healing shared, “The one person who understands you compassionately and without condemnation... is your Heavenly Father.”

Have students read the Bible Verse: Psalm 147:3 (NIV) – “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

5. Discuss how many people who have experienced trauma, especially sexual violence, struggle with extreme shame that keeps them silent.

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6. Have the students read the following verses, then discuss their takeaways. In summary, what does the Lord say about feeling shame?: “Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” Psalm 34:5 NIV “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.”

Isaiah 61:7 NIV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV 7. Discuss how many people view God as a strict Coach who yells at us when we get injured. But the Bible describes Him as a Medic, our Compassionate Healer. When a soldier is wounded, the Medic binds the wound out of concern.

Encourage the teens that we don’t have to clean ourselves up before we come to God. We come to God to get cleaned up. He isn’t shocked by our trauma, and He isn’t ashamed of your scars. We do not have to feel shame.

8. Object Lesson: The “Weight of Silence” - A physical demonstration of the burden of isolation. ▶ Gather the sturdy backpack and several heavy books or rocks. ▶ Pick a volunteer (preferably a stronger guy). Have him put on the empty backpack. ▶ Tell the group: “The article says, ‘It is hard to heal yourself in isolation.’ Let’s see what isolation feels like.” ▶ Start naming things, guys keep hidden, based on the article. For every item, put a heavy book in the pack.

- Book 1: “Someone touched me appropriately, and I feel ashamed.”

- Book 2: “I’m afraid if I tell, no one will believe me.”

- Book 3: “I feel like I’m damaged goods.”

- Book 4: “I’m trying to numb the pain with porn or substances.”

- Book 5: “I’m angry at God.” ▶ Ask the volunteer to do 10 pushups or hold a plank position with the full weight. ▶ While he struggles, ask: “Is he weak? No, he’s strong. But the load is too heavy for one man.” ▶ Have two other guys come over and lift the backpack off his shoulders while he’s still in the plank position. ▶ Explain that, “This is what the article means by ‘Healing happens in relationships.’ The Bible says in Galatians 6:2, ‘Carry each other’s burdens.’ You were never meant to carry the weight of abuse or trauma alone. It will crush you.

Strength isn’t carrying it alone; strength is signaling for backup.”

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9.

Discuss practical steps to find safe people.

Share, “The article shared, “A safe person is someone trustworthy who can guide you to share openly by listening... free from negativity, judgment, condemnation.” ▶ Have the guys close their eyes for a moment. ▶ Ask: “Think of the 3 people you spend the most time with. If you told them your deepest pain, would they: A) Make a joke, B) Tell you to toughen up, or C) Listen and support you?” ▶ Challenge: Remind the teens that if they don’t have a ‘C’ in their life, they need to find one. It might be a youth leader, a counselor, or a parent. The article lists pastors and counselors as key resources. Remind students it is not a weakness to have a guide when you are lost in the woods.

10. Remind the teens that God restores lives. Explain that restoration doesn’t mean pretending the bad thing never happened. It means God takes the broken pieces and builds something new and unbreakable.

Refer to Bible verse Joel 2:25 (NIV) – “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten.”

11. Prayer: “Father, we break the agreement with silence in this room. We reject the lie that we have to handle our pain alone. For any guy here carrying a hidden weight, give him the courage to find a ‘safe person’ this week. Thank You that You are not a God who condemns, but a Father who heals. Restore what was stolen. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Leader’s Note: If possible, make yourself available after the session for anyone wanting 1:1 time with you.

Remind the guys at the end: “If this lesson stirred something up in you, or if you are carrying something heavy right now, I am hanging around after we dismiss. I am a safe place. You don’t have to carry the backpack out the door.”

NOTES

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NOTES

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SEX TRAFFICKING PREVENTION CHAPTER 04 • PAGES 56 - 75

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Protect Yourself and Others from Victimization • What new facts did you learn about sex trafficking that you did not know before?

• On page 63, there is a list of tips for online protection. Which tip or tips especially stood out to you that you want to apply right away?

• Referring to the article on page 64, “It Happened to Me! A Guy!” ask: ▶ In what way did Jami’s friend handle the situation wisely? ▶ Could Jami himself have done something differently? If so, what is another way he could have handled the situation? ▶ What would you do if someone approached you like Jami was approached? ▶ What would you do if someone followed you around trying to get you to come with them or get your phone number?

• Sex trafficking happens in many, if not all, communities at some level. However, many people are unaware that it is happening around them. In your school or community, how prevalent do you think sex trafficking is? Share any experiences or something you observed that looked suspicious. *Remind the participants that throughout Brave & Bold, the sex-trafficking hotline is handy for them to call should they need help or if someone they know wants help.

• Do you have any questions about sex trafficking? Any comments or thoughts? Share that as a teacher/leader/parent, you may not have all the answers, but together, answers can be discovered!

• In the compilation of stories entitled “Voices of Freedom,” Which of the three testimonies by the survivors touched your heart the most? Why? • Know that it took courage for these survivors to share their personal stories with you. If these survivors were sitting in front of you right now, what questions would you ask them? What would you want to tell them?

• What do these testimonies communicate or reveal to you about the Lord and His desire and ability to heal?

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ACTIVITIES

Awareness Art Materials Needed: • index cards • three mini posters with the words FORCE, COERCION, and FRAUD written on them.

• drawing paper or canvas for each participant, or poster paper if you want the group to work in pairs • colored pencils, markers, or paint for painting on canvases • Bibles

Instructions: 1. Have the guys write a definition of sex trafficking in their own words on their index card.

2. Ask for volunteers to share their definition.

3. Review the definition of sex trafficking in the first paragraph in the article, “What is Sex Trafficking?” on page 58.

4. Discuss what they think the definitions of the words force, coercion, and fraud are. Then share these simple working definitions: ▶ Force: when violence is used to control someone ▶ Coercion: when threats and manipulation are used to control someone ▶ Fraud: when lies and deceit are used to control someone 5. Share and discuss: “When you think about the subject of slavery, which usually involves putting a price on someone’s life, treating a person as property or an object to be used, what thoughts and feelings come up for you?”

6. Share the following statistics: ▶ There are millions of modern-day slaves in existence today. ▶ Thousands of people get trafficked every year. ▶ The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported that they estimate over one million children and teens enter the sex trade every year. ▶ The National Center for Homeless Education found that approximately 1 in 3 runaway teens will be approached by a sex trafficker within 48 hours of being on the street.

7. Contrast the slavery of a person with the value that God puts on a life, His creation!

8. Introduce Psalm 139 and read aloud, or have the students read from their Bibles.

9. Give each participant a drawing paper or a canvas. Using colored pencils, markers, or paints, have them create an image that expresses anything they want to express about this issue of sex trafficking.

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10. The following are just some ideas, but encourage the guys to be creative! There is no right or wrong way! *Another option is to work in pairs, creating their message on poster paper. It could: ▶ Symbolize the pain of victims. ▶ Communicate a message against sex trafficking. ▶ Illustrate an awareness message. ▶ Express their feelings.

11. After the artwork is complete, set aside time for each participant to share their artwork.

Encourage each participant to make a positive observation about each piece and share what it communicates to them personally.

12. Prayer: Spend time praying about the issue of sex trafficking as God leads.

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THE BROTHERHOOD CHAPTER 05 • PAGES 78 - 89

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

The Value of Men Arising • What is a takeaway you had from this chapter?

• God created us with a need for community and for same-gender friendships that are like brothers.

Think of how close a brotherhood King David and Jonathan, King Saul’s son, shared. Military units of male soldiers also share a strong bond of brotherhood. Such bonds with other brothers are not meant to be sexualized but to create a special camaraderie like a band of brothers. In your own words, what is the difference between a “friend who you game/hang with” and a “brother”?

• Have you ever had a coach, teacher, or mentor challenge you in a way that was uncomfortable at the time, but actually made you stronger? If so, share how they added value to your life.

• Do you have brotherly friends who are brave enough to tell you when you’re messing up or making a bad call? How do you usually react when they do—do you get defensive or do you listen?

• Proverbs 18:24 NIV says, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Obviously, we think of Jesus here. How did Jesus treat and interact with His disciples (His “boys”)? What are some great practices that Jesus modeled about the team of brothers/disciples he lived life with?

• The article on Daring Greatly states, “Strength is not about domination but seeking noble pursuits such as protection, care, and service.” Who is one man you know personally (not a celebrity) who fits this definition? Describe them.

• Imagine your future son is 16 years old and he is watching a video recording of how you live your life right now. Would you be proud of the example you are setting for him? What qualities would you want your future son to be inspired by in you as a teen?

•

If this small group actually “locked arms” and committed to a single cause or change in our community, what would you want that to be? What “noble pursuit” can we chase together?

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ACTIVITIES

The Power Of Brotherhood Materials Needed: •

a rough block of wood and a sheet of coarse sandpaper

•

3 large sheets of butcher paper taped to the wall

•

markers

•

index cards & pens

Instructions: 1. Hold up the rough wood and the sandpaper. Start sanding the wood vigorously while you talk.

2. Share, “The brotherhood article mentions that mentors are like hammers, and friends provide the ‘friction and heat’ to mold us. ▶ (Hold up the wood): This is us. We’ve got splinters, rough edges, and sharp corners (bad attitudes, pride, fears). ▶ (Hold up the sandpaper): This is a real brother.

When I rub this sandpaper against the wood, it creates heat. It creates friction. It actually removes parts of the wood.

Real brotherhood isn’t always comfortable. If your friends only tell you what you want to hear, they are leaving you rough and splintered. A true brother—like the article says—challenges your discussions and tests your beliefs. He loves and cares for you enough to cause a little friction to make you smooth, useful, and strong.”

3. (optional) Discuss the following questions: “Why does it tend to be harder for guys to be vulnerable than girls?”

“Have you ever lost a good guy friend? How did you handle it?”

Summarize by sharing some teachable points from your life and answer the questions yourself as your personal reflections.

Introduce the next activity after setting up 3 posters on the wall.

Explain that there are three posters on the wall. Break the room into 3 groups. Rotate them every 3 minutes.

They must write/draw their answers based on the article and their own lives. Add titles to each poster that correspond to the themes listed below. Follow the prompts as you explain what the students must do: Poster 1: THE ENEMY OF BROTHERHOOD ▶ Prompt: The article says “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin.” What destroys friendships among guys? (e.g., Gossip, jealousy, a girl, betrayal, silence).

Poster 2: THE TOOLKIT (Acts & Deeds) ▶ Prompt: The quote says brotherhood is about “Acts and deeds.” List specific things a ‘Brother’ does. (e.g., Shows up at your game, texts back, keeps secrets, prays for you).

Poster 3: THE END GOAL ▶ Prompt: The article says brotherhood “shapes boys into men.” What does that man look like? Draw or describe the ultimate result of good brotherhood.

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4. Review: Walk to each poster and highlight the best answers.

5. Transition from the higher energy activity to a calmer, reflective mood. Share, “Guys, I want to be real with you for a second. The article mentions that in a brotherhood, ‘it’s easier to open up.’

Too many of us are walking around lonely because we are afraid. We’re afraid if we tell another guy we’re struggling with depression, or lust, or family anger, he’ll laugh. So we stay silent. And silence is where the enemy wins.”

6. Hand out index cards. Ask them to write “MY 3” at the top.

7. Instruct the guys to write down three names: ▶ The Mentor: An older guy (Dad, Coach, Uncle, Leader) you respect. ▶ The Brother: A peer who actually has your back. (If you don’t have one, write ‘Praying for him’). ▶ The Timothy: Someone younger or newer to the faith that you can support.

8. Explain that, within the next 24 hours, you want them to initiate a connection and text one of these people, sharing something like: ‘Hey, I was thinking about you, and I’m thankful you’re in my life.’ Discuss how this can be meaningful to the other person to know they are being thought of.

9. Gather everyone in a tight circle (shoulder to shoulder like a huddle).

Pray along these lines: “Lord, we don’t want to be lone wolves. We want to be men of God who are forged in the fire of friendship. Grant us the brotherhood this article talks about—not just words, but acts and deeds. Bring the right hammers and the right friends into this circle. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Rise Of The Mighty Men Materials Needed: •

several large pieces of cardboard or sofa cushions that will serve as shields

•

nerf balls, crumpled paper, or dodgeballs

•

markers & butcher paper

•

Bibles

Instructions: 1. Prepare for an introductory game. Select three volunteers. Give them “shields” (cushions/cardboard).

2. Play the game in two rounds: Round 1 (Isolation): Spread them out in the room. The rest of the class gets the “projectiles.” On “GO,” the class tries to hit the volunteers. (The volunteers will inevitably get hit from behind/sides).

Round 2 (The Phalanx): The three volunteers must stand back-to-back-to-back (forming a triangle) or side-by-side with shields overlapping. The class tries to hit them again.

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3. Debrief the game by sharing, “In the first round, you guys got roasted. Why? Because you had blind spots.

The article we read says, ‘No man is an Island.’ When you try to do high school, faith, or life alone, you are exposing your back.

But in Round 2, you were a fortress. You protected each other. The article calls this ‘The unstoppable force unleashed when a community of men locks arms.’ Today, we are looking at how to stop being victims of the culture and start being Mighty Men.” 4. Transition to exploring the biblical story of David’s Mighty Men. Have the students read 2 Samuel 23:8-12 & 20-23 (David’s Mighty Men) in their Bibles.

5. After reading the Bible references, share how these men became warriors by committing to a cause.

Focus on the following two characters: Eleazar (The Grinder): Read 2 Samuel 23:9-10. ▶ Context: Everyone else ran away during a battle. Eleazar stood his ground and fought so long that his hand froze to his sword. ▶ Article Connection: Share, “Sometimes, brotherhood means you don’t run when things get hard (drama, trouble, crisis). You stay until your hand freezes to the sword.”

Benaiah (The Risk Taker): Read 2 Samuel 23:20. ▶ Context: This guy chased a lion into a pit on a snowy day and killed it. ▶ Article Connection: Share,”This chapter talked about standing against injustice. In our world, the ‘lion’ isn’t an animal. It’s sex trafficking. It’s the exploitation of girls and guys. It’s bullying. A ‘Mighty Man’ doesn’t watch the lion; he jumps in the pit to stop it.”

6. Discuss how Benaiah jumped into a pit with a lion. What is a ‘pit’ (a scary or difficult situation) that teenagers face today, where most people just walk away?”

7. Transition to a heart-to-heart conversation. Highlight that in the “Daring Greatly” article, sex trafficking, sexual violence, and pornography are mentioned.

Explain that culture tells us that ‘being a man’ is about what you can get from women. The Bible—and this article—says being a man is about how you protect women.

Pornography is the fuel: Discuss how the article says porn ‘feeds into and promotes dangerous exploitation.’ You cannot claim to be a ‘Mighty Man’ who fights for justice if you are secretly funding the industry that destroys women.

8. Introduce the group activity: “The Ripple Chart” Explain the ripple effect: Highlight the fact that when a guy steps up... his impact goes way beyond himself.’

9. Divide into small groups with butcher paper. Draw a stick figure in the middle (The Man). Draw concentric circles around him (Like ripples in water). Discuss the following: Circle 1 (Self ): What happens to his heart if he lives with integrity? (e.g., Confidence, Peace).

Circle 2 (Friends): How does his integrity change his friend group? (e.g., They stop talking trash about girls).

Circle 3 (The Vulnerable): How does his life affect the ‘voiceless’ mentioned in Prov 31:8? (e.g., He intervenes in bullying).

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10. Review the scripture: Proverbs 31:8-9 NIV – “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

Discuss the areas of concern in their community and world where such injustices can be seen.

11. Highlight that there is power in vulnerability - being real with one another in safe relationships.

Highlight that in the “Daring Greatly” article, it was said, ‘Embrace the power of vulnerability. You are not called to model perfection but to model the process of growing.’

Introduce a time where the group will now have 2 minutes of silence. Say, “I want you to ask God one question: ‘What is the one area of my life where I have been passive, and I need to become a Mighty Man?’” 12. Have students write that one thing on a piece of paper that they struggle with (e.g., “My anger,” “My porn habit,” “Ignoring the lonely kid”). Ask the guys to say a silent prayer, asking God for help in that area.

13. Tell them to fold up the paper, and then throw it away in the trash can to symbolize that they want to overcome and be victorious in that battle.

14. Then tell them to find one other guy in the room before they leave, tap fists, and say: “I’m in the fight with you,” to acknowledge the brotherhood.

15. Invite students to help close the time in prayer, but you can also pray something like, “God, raise a generation of Benaiahs and Eleazars in this room. Let us be men who don’t just consume, but create. Men who don’t exploit, but protect. Forge us into a brotherhood that changes this school. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

NOTES

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RISING STRONG

CHAPTER 06 • PAGES 90 - 105

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Onward with Vision and Purpose • What is a takeaway from this chapter?

• Has God ever used something weird, uncomfortable, or annoying to guide you toward something good? If so, share that experience. What is one “breadcrumb” you think He might be dropping in your life right now?

• Once you know an injustice exists (like bullying, trafficking, or poverty), does God hold you responsible to do something about it? Why, or why not? Why is “ignoring it” so tempting?

•

If trafficking is driven by demand, mostly from men in the world, what is our role as Christian men in stopping it? How does the way we talk about girls or what we watch online feed that “demand” or protect others?

• Usually, the things that make us the angriest are the things we are called to fix. What is one injustice or problem in the world (or just at our school) that makes you genuinely angry?

• When you look at the problems facing teenagers today (anxiety, addiction, broken families), does it feel “Impossible” to fix? How does Matthew 19:26 (“With God all things are possible”) hit you in that context?

• If you could start a ministry and God provided ALL the resources you needed, what would it be?

• What is one thing you wish you were amazing at, and what is one thing you are actually naturally good at (even if it’s totally random)?

• It took the author of the article Your Rising Path years—going from writer, to artist, to marketing, to church work—before he found his true calling in anti-trafficking. Does hearing that relieve the pressure to pick your “forever career” right now? Why do you think we feel so much pressure to have it all figured out in high school?

• The author of Arise a Hero says, “I believed I was a powerless victim feeling used, abused, and taken for granted.” This is a “Victim Mindset.” Why is it actually easier to stay a victim and blame everyone else than it is to take responsibility and change?

• What is one specific talent you have (gaming, sports, listening, fixing cars) that God could use to help someone this week?

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ACTIVITIES

The Front Seat Materials Needed: •

YouTube Video (3:26): Hawaii’s News Now. (2025, January 10). Former gang member turned youth minister begins prison sentence [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/ FRXwKmHoWqg?si=4l6iylEImreA0c51

•

two chairs arranged like a car (one in front, one directly behind)

•

a toy pair of handcuffs (or a zip tie/rope)

•

blue glow sticks (optional, for “Operation Blue Light” effect)

•

index cards and pens

Instructions: 1. Introduce the game, “Unlikely Allies.”

2. Divide the room into two groups. Name one group “The Grandpas” and the other “The Gangsters.” (Make it fun/funny).

Give them a seemingly impossible task to solve only by working together. (Example: “Building a human pyramid where the ‘Grandpas’ have to be the base and the ‘Gangsters’ have to be the top,” or a complex riddle).

Tell them the rule: They cannot talk. They have to use hand signals (like the Shaka).

3. The Debrief: After the game, share, “In the game, you had to work with people you were labeled against. The article we read talked about a neighborhood where ‘Grandmas and Gangsters’ teamed up to shut down a drug house. Usually, those two groups don’t mix. But when they united for a purpose, they won. Today, we’re looking at how to stop fighting against our community and promote unity.”

4. Place the two chairs in the center of the room. You, the teacher, sit in the Back Seat.

5. Retell the story of Mana in the article Arise a Hero by sharing, “The article tells the story of a guy named Mana. He was an ex-gang leader, incarcerated for 26 years. For most of his life, his view of the world was from right here—the back of a police car. Handcuffed. Angry. A victim.”

“But then, the author, Allen Cardines, gave him a chance to serve. During ‘Operation Blue Light,’ Mana had to deliver Christmas gifts with the police.

Imagine this: Mana is sitting in the front seat. He’s weeping. Why? Because the police had killed his brother years ago. He had every reason to hate them. But in that moment, he chose to forgive. He chose to be a partner instead of a prisoner.”

Allen told him: ‘Give the Shaka sign. Show them you aren’t in handcuffs (hold up the handcuffs). Show them you’re free.’”

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6. Read 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

Share, “Mana is the definition of a ‘New Creation.’ The ‘Old Mana’ sat in the back. The ‘New Mana’ sits in the front.”

Ask, “Are you living in the back seat (letting your past mistakes or your anger drive you) or the front seat (leading with purpose)?”

7. Share, “Allen Cardines, the author of the article, said his passion is to help people win ‘the personal, private, painful battles that no one can see.’

A lot of us act tough at school, but in our heads, we are losing the war. We can feel like victims. ‘My teacher hates me.’

‘My dad left me.’ ‘This town sucks.’ That mindset is a trap. Allen then went on to say ‘I now believe I am powerful, not powerless, because I can choose my attitude.’”

8. Introduce a short writing activity. Hand out index cards.

9. Ask the guys to write down ONE thing that makes them feel “handcuffed” (trapped/angry). Examples: Porn addiction, hatred toward a stepdad, jealousy of a friend, shame about a past mistake.

Then, have them fold the card.

Then they must tear the card in half, and throw it in a trash can. Explain this is a symbolic act of not letting that issue handcuff them in life, preventing them from reaching their potential.

10. Read Romans 12:21 NIV: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Explain, “You don’t beat darkness by punching it. You beat it by turning on a light. You don’t beat hate with more hate. You beat it with ‘Aloha’—with the love of God.” 11. Summarize, “Each of you is called to be a Hero, not a Zero. A Hero isn’t someone who flies; it’s someone who heals.

This week, I want you to find one ‘Unlikely Ally’ (a teacher, a parent, a kid at school who annoys you) and do one specific thing to make their life better. Confuse them with kindness.”

12. Pass out the blue glow sticks and crack them so they glow. Turn off the lights. Pray in a huddle: “Lord, we are done sitting in the back seat. We are done being victims of our anger and our past. Like Mana, we claim the Front Seat today. We forgive those who hurt us. We choose Aloha over hate. Make us heroes in our high schools. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

This is it, gentlemen. We have arrived at the finish line of the series, but the starting line of your lives.

This article is a send off. It’s telling us that reading about being “Brave & Bold” is useful when we actually get up off the couch and live it.

Know that the number one thing that kills potential in young men is procrastination—the idea that “I can’t start until I’m ready.” I hope together through our journey through Brave & Bold, we are creating a strong launch pad for you!”

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The Launch Materials Needed: •

dominoes: A massive pile of them

•

“rough Draft” Items: A crumpled piece of paper, a visual graphic of architecture blueprint, and a messy lump of clay

•

sharpies and a large wooden plank (or cardboard) for the final signing

•

music: something cinematic and building (like Interstellar or epic worship) for the end

•

a large graphic of an architecture blueprint

Instructions: 1. Before the guys enter, set up the room to be incredibly boring. No music. Chairs in rows. Put up a sign that says “WAITING ROOM.” When they sit down, tell them: “We are waiting for the perfect moment to start the lesson. We aren’t ready yet. Just sit there.”

Let it be awkward for a full 60 seconds. Let them get annoyed.

2. Suddenly, play high-energy music. Kick over a chair (safely).

3. Ask, “How much did you hate that? Just sitting? Waiting? The article says: ‘Life isn’t a waiting room... It’s easy to fall into the rhythm of just existing... sleep, repeat.’ Some of you may be living your faith like you’re in a waiting room.

You’re waiting to be older, waiting to be smarter, waiting to not have acne, waiting to be ‘holy enough.’ Newsflash: The perfect moment is never coming. The only moment you have is NOW. Today, we leave the waiting room.”

4. Hold up the visual of the architecture blueprint of a building.

Then hold up a picture of the finished skyscraper.

Then hold up the crumpled paper/messy clay.

5. Share, “The last article in the chapter said: ‘Every dream that has changed the world started as a rough draft.’

We have a problem, guys. We look at Instagram and we see everyone’s ‘Final Draft.’ We see the finished muscle, the signed contract, the perfect relationship. We don’t see the struggle.

The author admits she felt ‘too small, too unqualified, too insecure.’ She had imposter syndrome.

God loves rough drafts. ▶ Moses: A murderer with a speech impediment. (Rough Draft). ▶ David: A scrawny shepherd ignored by his dad. (Rough Draft). ▶ Peter: A fisherman with an anger problem. (Rough Draft).

God didn’t wait for them to be perfect to use them. He used them while they were messy. You don’t need to be polished to be powerful.”

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6. Explain, “The author shares something vulnerable in this text. She says her desire to help people came from ‘rejection and trauma.’ She says, ‘I struggled with literally hating myself.’

Some of you are there right now. You think your trauma, your parents’ divorce, your addiction, or the bullying you faced disqualifies you.

The Truth is…your pain is actually your credential. The article says God makes ‘Beauty from ashes.’ ▶ If you’ve struggled with loneliness, you are uniquely qualified to help the lonely. ▶ If you’ve struggled with addiction, you are uniquely qualified to help the addict. ▶ If you’ve felt rejected, you know how to make people feel accepted.

Your ‘Why’ is usually buried in your wounds. Don’t hide your scars; they are your map to your mission.”

7. Introduce the Domino Effect. Gather everyone around a table.

Give every guy 5-10 dominoes. Share that the article said: ‘A single spark starts a wildfire. One drop of water can send a ripple... One small step... can completely change the course of a life.’

Explain, “We are going to build a chain. I want you to think of ONE SMALL STEP you need to take. Not ‘Save the World.’ I mean small. Here are a few examples:” ▶ Apologize to my mom. ▶ Delete that one app. ▶ Read one chapter of the Bible. ▶ Sign up for the gym.

8. Have teens set up the dominoes in a massive, interconnected pattern. It takes patience. It takes steadiness.

Share that Zechariah 4:10 NIV says, ‘Do not despise these small beginnings.’ Discuss how the author built this whole Brave series ‘One small step at a time.’ Have the students observe the chain and connect how it represents the group. The Brotherhood. Each small step affects the next person, and his step affects the next person.

9. Have the quietest, most unassuming guy in the room push the first domino. Watch the chain reaction.

10. Bring out the wooden plank/cardboard. Write “WE RISE” in the middle.

11. Share, “The article ends with a challenge: ‘No more waiting. No more holding back... Light that spark.

And rise strong!’

We are done with this series. But we are just starting the mission. If you are ready to stop being a spectator and start being a Mighty Man—a man of purpose, a man who protects, a man who acts—come sign this board. This is your contract with yourself and with God.” 12. Closing Prayer: As they sign, pray over them with intensity. Pray as you feel led along the lines of: “Father, remove the fear in this room. Take our rough drafts and turn them into masterpieces. We are not waiting for the future; we are stepping into it right now. We are the ripples. We are the spark. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

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