Determination

Subject: Christian Religious Education — Topic: The Bible
Age: 11 (Kenyan context)

What is determination?

Determination means deciding to finish something even when it is hard. It is not giving up. A person with determination keeps trying, prays, and trusts God.

Simple signs of determination
  • Finishing homework even when tired
  • Practising for football or music every day
  • Helping at home and not giving up when it is hard
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Bible examples of determination
  • Nehemiah — He rebuilt Jerusalem’s wall even when people laughed and tried to stop him. (Nehemiah worked hard and prayed.)
  • Joseph — He stayed faithful to God through slavery and prison and later led Egypt. He did not give up hope.
  • David — A young shepherd who faced Goliath with courage and trust in God.
Memory verses

- Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Short: I can do all things.)
- Galatians 6:9: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

(Encourage students to learn one verse each week.)
How determination helps you in Kenya
  • Studying for national exams (KCPE, KCSE): keep practising past papers.
  • Helping the family: fetch water, work in the garden, but doing it with a willing heart.
  • Joining church youth groups, scouts, or sports and practising regularly.
Short class activity (10–15 minutes)
  1. Tell a short story of a time you did not give up (1 minute each).
  2. In pairs, act out Nehemiah rebuilding the wall (2 minutes).
  3. Say the memory verse together and clap after each phrase.
Reflection questions (write 2–3 sentences)
  • When have you felt like giving up? What did you do?
  • How can prayer help when you are trying hard?
  • Who in your family or community shows determination? How?
Remember: Determination with prayer and trust in God helps you finish what you start. Keep trying, ask God for strength, and help others to keep going too. 🙏✨

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