Navigating Troubled Waters: Biblical Counseling for Parents of Lost Teens
As parents, navigating the tumultuous waters of raising teenagers can be both challenging and disheartening. When our teens seem lost, making poor choices, or even defying authority, we often feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to guide them. In these moments, biblical counseling can provide a lifeline—a beacon of hope and perspective.
Understanding “Lost” Teens
Who are these “lost” teens? They encompass both the unsaved and immature believers who disregard God’s design for authority in their lives. These young souls may exhibit patterns of rebellion, ignoring parental counsel and discipline. The Bible aptly describes them as “fools” who despise wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7).
A Glimpse into the Struggle
Consider Jed and Sally, desperate parents seeking help for their wayward son, Christian. Christian’s behavior had escalated to the point of threatening suicide. He resisted counseling, preferring to figure things out on his own. Their hearts heavy with despair, Jed and Sally turned to the school’s biblical counselor, hoping for guidance.
From Triage to Hope
In an emergency room, doctors assess injuries and prioritize life-saving actions. Similarly, as biblical counselors, we must first offer hope. Parents need to know that with God’s help, answers exist, and they can choose actions that honor Him. Beyond behavior modification, we must explore God’s Word to understand our goals and expectations for our teens.
Guiding Parents Toward Hope
- Listening Empathetically: In initial sessions, we listen with compassion, understanding the parents’ pain and frustration. We step into their shoes, acknowledging their struggles.
- Introducing Hope: Parents must recognize that hope exists even in their darkest moments. We share stories, vignettes, and biblical truths to ignite that spark of hope.
- Partnering with Parents: Our policy is clear: we counsel teens alongside their parents. Christian parents are invited to join the counseling sessions, emphasizing their commitment to their teens well-being.
- Addressing Consequences: We help parents navigate these challenges, pointing them toward hope.
- God’s Purpose in Trials: We explore God’s purpose behind the trial. What does He want to teach the teen? How can this situation draw the family closer to Him?
Hope Beyond Circumstances
Parents can find hope beyond their circumstances. With God’s Word as our guide, we help them assess their desires for their teen and align those desires with God’s purpose. Through biblical counseling, parents discover that even in the stormiest seas, hope remains—an anchor for their souls.
Read the full article here: Counseling Parents of Lost Teens: Giving Hope and Perspective by Kathy Hutton.
