Finding the Way Back to Mayberry
Lesson 22 Opie and The Bully
Introduction
Opie has a problem. It seems that a fellow classmate named Sheldon is threatening him on a
daily basis. If Opie doesnt give up his milk money, Sheldon has promised to
pulverize him, knock his block off, give him the old 1-2 and jump on him all pretty
serious consequences for a seven-year-old.
Andy gets suspicious when he finds out that Opie is asking Aunt Bee and Barney for extra milk money. Barney takes it upon himself to find out what is going on and he discovers Sheldons extortion. Barney alerts Andy of the situation and suggests that they notify Sheldons parents. However, Andy prefers to handle the situation in another way
Lesson Points
How We Deal with Trouble
Taking Matters into Our Own Hands
Hiding Our Problems
Asking for Help (Matt. 7:7-11)
Being Afraid (John 14:27)
Handling Fear
Hard to Admit
Is it ok to be Afraid? (Matt. 6:25-27)
A Parents Perspective
Andys Dilemma
Opies Lesson
Gods Relationship with Us (Rom. 8:15-17)
Courage to Face Lifes Trials (Eph. 6:10-17)
Where it comes from
Our Examples
The Result Victory!
Discussion
Opies situation with Sheldon is not that different from situations we all face
today. Sometimes we are presented with problems that we dont know how to handle. But
instead of asking for help, we, like Opie, refuse to admit that anything is wrong. What
are some reasons that we hesitate to ask for help? What are the advantages of seeking
help?
We may not be afraid of a "knuckle sandwich", but we all struggle with fear. Is being afraid something we should be ashamed of? What if our fears paralyze us and keep us from accomplishing anything?
In the end, both Opie and Andy had tough decisions to make. Opie had to face the bully, but Andy had to let him go. From this situation, do you see any similarities with our relationship with God, as you have to face trials in the world?
Opies courage to face the bully was based on his faith in Andy that everything would turn out all right. Likewise, we are called to have faith in the Father, that He will take care of His children. Who are some people you know that are an example of courage to you? How does their example help you in times of trouble?
Final Thought
"I hope you was telling me the truth, Pa." -Opie