This is to parents,especially Christian parents raising teenagers.
Someone asked me this question.........
How do you help your teenagers navigate the pressure of daring to be different in today’s world?
Let me then add; especially when it comes to seeing relationships through a godly lens.
Hmmmm
It’s a lot of work, I agree, but definitely not impossible.Here’s what I’ve learned (and I’m still learning every day)
When their identity is rooted in Christ, they’re less shaken by peer pressure or the fear of standing out.
The pressure to conform often comes from insecurity and the need belong.We must anchor our teenagers in the truth of who they are in Christ Jesus. They are loved, chosen, and set apart. This helps them develop the courage to stand firm even when it's hard.
Teenagers crave understanding, not just instructions and the endless "don'ts"
Remember how it was for you as a teenager then? Consciously create a safe, judgment free space where they can process the pressures and ask hard questions.
Rather than shutting down conversations about dating, identity and so on.... Walk them through what Scripture says.
Pray with them and pray for them. There are battles only God can deal with in their hearts..
A teenager once opened up to me. Some of her classmates call her a novice because she doesn’t have a boyfriend. One day, during a conversation, they said:
“Are you’re too innocent to even be part of this gist.”
And then I asked, “Did you ever feel the need to bend to the pressure?”
And she vehemently responded with.."Am I ready for marriage?”
So simple. Yet so profound.
The truth is, even when teenagers know what’s right, the pressure can still feel heavy, especially when nearly all their “friends” seem to be doing the opposite.
Yes, the pressure can still get to them sometimes. But when we make them feel comfortable enough to discuss anything, it helps a lot.
When they open up, we can guide them, teach them, and remind them of who they are in Christ Jesus.Also, equip them with the right materials not just rules and regulations.Let's teach them the why behind godly boundaries in relationships.
Help them see the beauty of doing it the right way and right time, mutual respect, and purposeful love.
Parents let's keep showing up.
Keep listening.
Keep reminding them that being different for Christ doesn't make them a weirdo.They were never made to conform to the world, but to shift the culture to align it with kingdom principles...
God is helping us parents!
Post a Comment
0Comments