The Israelites faced temptation; the Corinthians faced temptation. The Bible is full of people who were tempted—even Jesus! Our memory verse reminds us that temptation is a common occurrence. But God is faithful, and He ALWAYS provides a way out.  

• If there’s always an escape route, why do you think so many people give in to temptation? (Answers will vary. Student’s may talk about not asking for help when it’s needed, not recognizing an escape route, or an inner desire that doesn’t want to find a way out, etc.)

• What are some reasons that it’s important to look for the “exit sign” when we are tempted to do something we know is wrong? (Answers will vary but might include: Giving in may seem like a small thing now but may have huge consequences down the line; once we give in a time or two, it just becomes easier and easier; giving in can ruin our testimony and relationship with God, etc.)

Hand out index cards and pens/pencils. Earlier we watched a video about strategies on how to beat an Escape Room—in other words, strategies to find your way out. Can anyone recall what they were? If students remember, have them call them out and write their responses on the whiteboard. If they don’t remember, you could show the video again, or write down the basic ideas:

1. Occam’s Razor – The simplest solution is usually the answer.
2. Inattentional Blindness – Don’t ignore what’s right in front of you.
3. Think Like a Third Grader – Use your creative imagination.
4. Functional Fixedness – Don’t limit use of a resource to only traditional ways.
5. Keep Morale High – Keeping encouraging each other and celebrate successes.

Andy mentioned one more strategy at the end that we might want to list as number six (ask your students to identify their “Game Master”):

6. Ask for Help from your Game Master

Have your students get into small groups of two to three. Ask them to brainstorm how each of these suggestions could be applied to a situation where they are tempted and need to find a way out. If your students need some examples: 1. Just say no and walk away might be the simplest escape route or finding a Bible verse that addresses it. 2. Take a deep breath and a step back—the way out may be obvious but you are missing it because of all that is going on. Maybe you can go talk with someone who is sitting by themselves to remove yourself from temptation or use prayer to defeat the enemy. 3. Think up something you and your friends can do instead—be creative! 4. Download a Christian best-seller audible mystery book to listen to if other undesirable online activities are too tempting, etc.

Once your students have had a chance to think and write, gather everyone together and let them share their ideas. Encourage your students to jot down ideas to take with them that they might use personally. Supply extra index cards as needed.

Close in prayer thanking God that He always provides a way of escape. Ask for His help in applying the principles you talked about today.