Introduction
Opie has a problem. It seems that a fellow classmate named Sheldon is threatening him on a daily basis. If Opie doesn’t 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 Sheldon’s extortion. Barney alerts Andy of the situation and suggests that they notify Sheldon’s 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 Parent’s Perspective

            Andy’s Dilemma

            Opie’s Lesson

            God’s Relationship with Us (Rom. 8:15-17)

Courage to Face Life’s Trials (Eph. 6:10-17)

            Where it comes from

            Our Examples

            The Result – Victory!

Discussion
Opie’s situation with Sheldon is not that different from situations we all face today. Sometimes we are presented with problems that we don’t 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?

Opie’s 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