Episode Title: Mountain Wedding

Lesson Title: The “T” Stands For Trouble

Biblical Theme: Trouble

Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.

When trouble comes, what we should fear is being too afraid to ask for help. Too often, because we feel overwhelmed or embarrassed in times of trouble, we think that no one would, could or even should help us. Trials test faith, and when handled correctly, strengthen perseverance. If we only make the effort to ask, God will always help us through our faith, family and friends. Remember this during the next time of trouble , whether you need help or are asked to help.

Parable: The Moral of Mayberry…

The answer to trouble is asking for help, even the Darlings knew that. But who knew such a small man could cause such big problems. While Ernest T. wanted to go out, Charlene wanted to stay home, married. So Mr. Darling asked the Sheriff to intervene, and Andy worked to satisfy both sides of the would be wedding party. Briefly , compare how each person reacted to trouble.

Andy: helped resolve trouble when asked.

Barney: helped Andy resolve trouble.

Mr. Darling: asked for help in time of trouble.

Charlene: victim of trouble, part of solution.

Dud: would have caused more trouble by fighting.

Ernest T.: cause trouble for selfish reasons.

How do you respond when you are threatened? Do you need the help of others?

Personal response:

Got trouble? Call God, you’ve got a heavenly hotline through prayer. Whether troublemaker or peacekeeper, man can neither make nor encounter trouble too great for the Lord, the Maker of the heaven and the earth. Read Psalm 121:1-2. Think how Mr. Darling and Ernest responded differently.

How did Mr. Darling react to trouble? Why did he feel comfortable asking Andy for help?

Mr. Darling reacted to trouble by looking for help. Andy had proven to be a friend in the past.

Why did Ernest T. throw rocks, break windows and use guns? What did his actions say about his attitude?

He was a troublemaker, not a peacekeeper. He reacted to trouble by making more trouble.

Troublemakers react to trouble by making more trouble. They think they can overpower their problems. Peacekeepers search for agreement that satisfies both sides. Their comfort comes from God who comforts us so we can comfort others. Read 2^nd. Corinthians 1:3-4

How did Andy offer to help in this situation? Which side did he try to satisfy?

Andy asked why each side was unhappy. Then he suggested a course of action to satisfy both. He reacted to trouble by working toward peace.

Trouble comes from selfish desire. Envy burdens both the envious and the envied. This is why God warns against coveting. Read Deuteronomy 5:21. To stop coveting, change your perspective and start being content. Rather than thinking of what you don’t have, be thankful for all that God has given you.

In the end, did Ernest T. change his attitude? What would he do if Dud mistreated Charlene?

Ernest T. saw that the Darlings had sought help, and the situation was resolved peacefully. He said if Dud mistreated Charlene, he was going to call that lady Sheriff, Barney.)

Reflection: At The Fishing Hole…

James 1-2-3: Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

For Christians, trials come “whenever” not “if ever” God won’t keep us from pain, but he will make us complete. He allows trouble so that we will turn to him and fellow believers. Just as you are not meant to rely solely on yourself, you should offer help to others in times of trouble. Read Ecclesiastes 4:9-10. To offer the most effective help, first understand the particular problem. If you are sensitive to that certain situation, you can better suggest an appropriate solution. Read 1^st. Thessalonians 5:14.

Like Mr. Darling, have you asked for help with nothing in return? Give an example.

Personal response.

Like Andy, have you helped without expecting anything in return? Give an example.

Personal response.

When threatened, Dud was ready to go guerilla, warfare that is. Christians who respond to threats with greater threats imply that the Lord won’t take care of them. The cure to insecurity is confidence in God. Read Hebrews 13:6. He will help you solve your problems or give you strength to endure them.

Like Dud, have you responded to trouble with threats of more trouble? Give an example.

Personal response.

Ernest T. had a change of heart, and not just from Charlene Darling to Barney the Lady Sheriff. While a fool always wants a fight, a wiser man learns how to resolve conflict. Read Proverbs 20:3. Rather than seek security in your own strength, seek security in your unity with God and fellow believers.

Like Ernest T. have you turned from troublemaker to peacekeeper? Give an example.

Personal response.

Action: Get Out Your Bullet…

John 16:33: I have told you these things , so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

Expect trouble, and expect triumph. Tension comes from a fallen world at odds with the heavenly kingdom. Victory comes because Jesus does not leave us in our struggles. If you cause trouble, you will be destroyed by trouble. Read Psalms 7:16. If you cling to Christ, nothing can separate you from his peace. Read Romans 8:35-37. During trials, look to the Lord for strength, help others find peace and remember that Jesus has already won the final battle.

What will you do when you are in trouble?

Ask for help from God and others. God will help us through our faith, family and friends.

What will you do when others are in trouble?

Offer help to others. You shouldn’t rely solely on yourself and neither should others have to.

How will you find the good in times of trouble?

Trials can strengthen perseverance. During trials, look to the Lord for strength, help others find peace and remember that Jesus has already won the final battle.

What trouble are you worried about right now? Have you asked for help?

Personal response.