Helping Your Child Navigate the Teen Years: A Biblical Approach
Being a teenager is no easy feat, and as parents, we have a unique opportunity to biblically prepare our children for this pivotal season. In her insightful article, Gracie Nelson shares practical wisdom on how to equip your child before they even step into their teenage years. Let’s dive into the key takeaways:
1. Outsmart the Smartphone
In today’s digital age, smartphones are ubiquitous, especially among teens. Gracie emphasizes the importance of thoughtful consideration before placing a smartphone in your child’s hands. She recalls her own decision to forego social media back in 2007, a choice that unknowingly shielded her from potential struggles. Today’s teens face an even more complex landscape, and parents must ask critical questions:
- How will giving my child a smartphone draw them closer to Christ?
- Am I motivated by peer pressure or genuine concern for my child’s well-being?
By intentionally addressing these questions, parents can make informed choices that prioritize their child’s spiritual growth over societal norms.
2. Fear of Man vs. Fear of God
Teens often grapple with fear of man—seeking approval and acceptance from peers. Gracie reminds us of Jesus’ words: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18). When teens understand that following Christ may lead to opposition, their fear of man takes a backseat. As parents, we can instill this eternal perspective in our children, helping them embrace a greater cause beyond self-preservation.
3. Cultivating a Heart for God
Our primary goal is to shepherd our teens’ hearts toward God. Gracie suggests practical ways to achieve this:
- Worship and Music: Encourage your teen to know God through worship and music. Point them to the Scriptures, emphasizing their identity in Christ rather than fleeting feelings.
- God’s Nearness: Remind them that God is near (Philippians 4:4-7). In times of anxiety or uncertainty, teach them to turn to Him in prayer.
4. The Beauty of Biblical Parenting
Gracie celebrates godly parenting as both valuable and rare. When parents intentionally prepare themselves and their children for the teen years, they set the stage for a beautiful journey. While the culture may glamorize worldly ideas, God’s ways remain far more beautiful. Let’s equip our children with biblical truth, helping them navigate adolescence with grace and wisdom.
Read the full article by Gracie Nelson: Help Your Teen Before He Is One
Remember, parenting is a sacred calling, and our investment in our children’s spiritual well-being echoes into eternity. May God guide us as we raise the next generation to love and follow Him wholeheartedly.
