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encouraging listeners to follow in the light of the Lord. If a teen enjoys music - and most of them do, according to research, listening to an average of several hours each day - why not use it as a stepping stone in guidance? Refer teens to popular Christian music, as the plethora of topics will surely relate to them in some manner. So what if it's Rock? So what if it's Hip-hop? The idea here is that they are heeding God's word, finding refuge in it, and liking it.

Using Movies for Advice

Some of the best stories ever written have been turned into movies. Those teens that opt against curling up with a good book can still benefit from the inspirational tales by watching the film adaptations. The Chronicles of Narnia and Lord of the Rings were both translated into blockbuster hits. Though advertised as mainstream action-filled stories, they hold a deeper Christian meaning. Unlike many books-turned-movies, these retain the good versus evil messages on screen that exist in the print versions. Without roots in classic literature, the Star Wars movies teach similar ideas. Any of these films can offer teens a quotable line or good moral lesson to apply to the craziness of their lives.

Using the Bible for Advice

If an adult is comfortable with one-on-one confrontations, try using the Bible. The Bible, of course, is full of wisdom, whether in proverbs or parables, so why not just refer teens to a particular book and passage? Biblical language and time-period information pose problems even for adult Christians. We frequently need someone to tell us the stories in easy, digestible bits, and the same goes for teens. Teenagers can benefit greatly from the lessons of the Bible, but they need to hear them in language that they understand. Sit down with the teen and listen. Choose a passage that appropriately addresses the circumstances and teach it in simple language. Most importantly, do not be afraid. Knowing that someone cares enough to spend the time to speak with them is often all a teen needs to get through a tough situation. "God so loved the world," and He wants us to, as well.

REFERENCES:

McLaren, B. (2007). Everything Must Change: Jesus, Global Crises, and a Revolution of Hope. Thomas Nelson: Nashville.

New International Version of the Holy Bible. (1973). Zondervan: Grand Rapids.

Learn more about this author, Marisa Hefflefinger.
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