by Katelyn Vercoe

Created on: May 05, 2008

Perhaps one of the deepest desires of Christian parents is that their children will readily follow in the faith, without experiencing the pain and lingering consequences of a life that shuns God's will. With the benefit of maturity and hindsight, adults have much good advice to offer teenagers, and teenagers are often searching for answers and advice as they navigate through those turbulent years. The Bible contains words of wisdom, the application of which assist in developing mature, effective lives. With the right approach, Biblical precepts are palatable advice to teens adhering to (or rejecting) most religious belief systems.

LIVE YOUR ADVICE

Without a doubt, the most effective and well received advice is that which is not spoken, rather demonstrated by example in daily life, over the course of a child's existence. If a teenager witnesses Godly principles and standards and associates these with success and happiness, then they are likely to embrace similar standards. On the other hand, if parents are constantly extolling the virtues of Godly behaviour, but their lives tell a different story, then their words are wasted as teenagers see only shallow hypocrisy.

PRAY FOR YOUR TEEN

Adults need to remember the importance of enveloping advice in prayer. Pray for wisdom, timing and sensitivity in dispensing advice and pray for ready reception of advice. Pray that communication remains open, despite occasions when advice is ill-presented or ill-received. Pray for grace to accept a teen exercising their right to question, dispute or reject advice.

IDENTIFY WITH YOUR TEEN

Attempt to remember the struggles and pleasures of the teenage years and aim to connect with teens on their level. Avoid superciliously advising from above...rather come along beside a teen, offering support, instruction and suggestion. Strengthen directives with explanations and try to describe the likely consequences of the acceptance or rejection of advice. Steer away from judgmental, legalistic remarks. Instead highlight the truth that Godly principles have been given to enhance and improve lives. God is not a killjoy!

ENCOURAGE YOUR TEEN

Take every opportunity available to encourage a teen for evidence of excellent choices and decisions. Praise effort and achievement. Commend strength of character and commitment. Acknowledge fine motives, even when outcomes disappoint. Bypass condemnation. Teens are generally only too well aware of their failings. Remind teens repeatedly of the grace and mercy of

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