Could You Give It Up Game

Lent is a time to grow closer to God. Catholics give up something during Lent to practice self-control and to remember Jesus’ sacrifice. This helps them focus on prayer and doing good for others. Youth can learn this through a fun game called Could You Give It Up?

This game helps young people think about what they are willing to give up. It also helps them see what others find hard to give up. This can lead to good discussions about sacrifice and faith. Players might realize they hold on to things more than they thought.

It also helps build honesty and self-awareness. Players must answer truthfully about what they could or could not give up. They learn to be real with themselves and others. This can help them understand their own strengths and struggles.

Most of all, the game encourages young people to reflect on Lent in a fun way. It is not just about winning. It is about thinking, learning, and growing. By playing, youth can take Lent more seriously and prepare their hearts for Easter.

This game can remind us of the story of the rich young man (Mark 10:17-22). He wanted to follow Jesus but was not willing to give up his wealth. In the game, players must decide what they could really give up. Some things are easy. Others are hard. Just like the rich young man, they might realize they are too attached to something.

It also connects to Jesus fasting in the desert (Matthew 4:1-11). Jesus gave up food for forty days and resisted temptation. In the game, players face small sacrifices and test themselves. They might see how hard it is to give something up even for fun. This can help them understand why Lent is important.

The game also teaches detachment. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Players might laugh when they realize they would never give up their favorite snack or hobby. But it can make them think. What do they treasure most? Is it something that brings them closer to God? This is a great lesson for youth ministry. It helps young people reflect on their faith in a way that is fun and meaningful.

Equipment / Materials

• None

Setup

1. Gather all players in a circle.
2. Make sure everyone can see and hear each other.
3. Explain the rules before starting.

Game Play

1. Each player holds up all ten fingers.
2. Choose a player to go first. They say, “I could give up ________ for Lent. Could you give it up?”
3. All players who could not give up that item lower one finger.
4. The next person in the circle takes a turn and makes a new statement.
5. Play continues around the circle. Each time a player cannot give something up, they lower a finger.
6. When a player lowers all ten fingers, they are out of the game.
7. The game continues until only one player has fingers still raised. That player is the winner.

Notes / Variations

• Players must be honest when lowering fingers. This is an honor system game.
• Encourage fun but also reflection. Ask players why certain things are harder to give up.
• For a shorter game, start with fewer fingers (five instead of ten).
• To add a challenge, require players to explain why they could give something up.
• If playing with younger children, set clear rules to keep the game respectful and fair.

Who can play the Could You Give It Up? game?

This game is great for youth groups, religious education classes, and families. It works best for kids and teens, but adults can play too.

What is the goal of the Could You Give It Up? game?

The goal is to think about what you could give up for Lent. It helps players reflect on sacrifice and self-control in a fun way.

How long does the Could You Give It Up? game take?

It depends on the group size. A small group might finish in 10-15 minutes. A large group may take longer.

Do I need any materials to play?

No, you do not need any materials. Just gather players in a circle and start.

Is the Could You Give It Up? game only for Lent?

No, you can play anytime. It is a good way to talk about sacrifice and detachment all year.

This game is a fun way to think about Lent and sacrifice. It helps players see what they hold on to the most. Some things are easy to give up, but others feel impossible. This can be a great lesson about self-control and faith.

The game also brings honesty and reflection. Players must admit what they would struggle to give up. This can lead to good discussions about what truly matters. It helps youth see if they are too attached to certain things.

Most of all, the game makes learning about Lent more engaging. It turns a serious topic into something fun and memorable. It helps young people prepare their hearts for Easter in a way they will enjoy and remember.

This game is easy to play and great for any youth group. Try it at your next meeting or retreat. See how your group reacts and what surprises come up.

Have you tried this game? Do you have your own variations or tips? Share your experience in the comments! Let’s find new ways to make faith fun and meaningful together.