by Brenna Erickson

Created on: May 02, 2008

~Christian Devotionals Create Stable Foundations for Teenagers~

In order for us to completely understand how beneficial Christian devotionals are for teenagers, we first need to learn what a devotional is. The term devotional stems from the word devotion, which means ardent, often selfless affection and dedication, as to a person or a principle. It also means the act of devoting or the state of being devoted. As human beings in general, we have a tendency to devote ourselves to at least one person or idea during our lives. Whether it is a religion, friends, family, a hobby, or anything else, we devote our time and energy to that specific thing. Now imagine how beneficial it would be for teenagers to become devoted to Jesus.

Christian devotionals, whether found within a study bible or another form, allow us to think deeply on different subjects pertaining to Christ and Christianity. They help us better understand the relationship between God and His children; they also increase our knowledge of what God desires to say to His people.

Teenagers, like everyone else, have a deep desire to be loved unconditionally. Through Christian devotionals, these teenagers can learn what kind of relationship Jesus is offering to them and how they can accept it and live in His love. If teenagers become devoted to their Saviour, the desire to sin, or step into temptation loses its flavor.

It is important for everyone, especially teenagers, to become Christ-centered instead of self-centered. Through devotionals, we can be drawn into a deeper understanding of who Christ has designed us to become. If teenagers become fulfilled in Christ they will establish a strong identity of who they are, they will become very strong individuals. Becoming a strong individual better prepares us for what this world, and Satan, will try to throw into our paths.

Therefore, Christian devotionals can benefit teenagers in many ways. The first step is for Christian adults to create an interest in teenagers for Christ. Secondly, once interest is generated, teenagers need to be introduced to the love Christ has to offer to them. Thirdly, teenagers need to be shown devotionals, and be taught how to learn from them. If these three steps are taken in love, we will find a larger number of strong, stable, and determined individuals in the future.

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