To begin the session:
Download the “Defense or Offense” puzzle here. Make copies of the worksheet for each class member. Place copies on classroom chairs, encouraging class members to work on it individually or corporately as they arrive. After everyone has had the opportunity to work the puzzle, share these answers: 1=b, 2=e, 3=k, 4=h, 5=l, 6=d, 7=c, 8=j, 9=a, 10=f, 11=k, 12=g, 13=i.
Transition into Bible study by saying, “In football and other sports, it is important that team score (offense) and prevent opponents from scoring (defense). The psalmist tells us that God plays both defense and offense on our behalf!”
To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:
Divide the class into two groups. Give each group an inexpensive foam football and a fine point permanent marker. (If you do not wish to purchase toy footballs, you may create football-shaped cardboard cutouts instead.) Give each group one of these Scripture assignments:
Defense Group (Psalm 91:1-8, 11-16) How does God protect us?
Offense Group (Psalm 91:1-8, 11-16) How does God fight for us?
Give groups about 15 minutes to read their Bible texts and then write answers to their question from the text on their footballs. Some suggested responses would be:
Defense Group—God shelters, fortifies, saves from traps and disease, shields, relieves fear, lifts us up out of harm’s way
Offense Group—God sends angels, helps us trample dangerous obstacles, punishes the wicked, answers our call for help, demonstrates how he saves, gives long life