8 ways to help your teen when they’re in trouble
Adolescence is a challenging and transformative period that brings about various mental, emotional, and physical changes in the lives of adolescents. During this period, adolescents face various challenges in figuring out themselves and making decisions for their future. What can families do to help them cope with these challenges and support their adolescents? The Bible gives us clear guidance for dealing with these challenging situations. In this article, we will present 8 ways to help adolescents with their problems, based on biblical principles.
1. Practicing patience and understanding (James 1:19–20)
Teenagers are going through rapid hormonal and emotional changes that affect their thinking and behavior. Although this can be a difficult time, it is important to exercise patience and understanding. The Bible says in James 1:19–20:
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, for human anger does not produce God’s righteousness.”
This means that instead of reacting to our teenager’s problems with anger, we should respond with patience and understanding.
Practical example:
When communicating with a teenager, you should not always respond immediately, as much as possible. Give genuine messages to understand their feelings and keep yourself clear and restrained. In such cases, mutual trust can be built with patience and understanding.
2. Understanding their emotional needs (Ephesians 6:4)
The emotional needs of teenagers are great. They are struggling to come to terms with their own identity, and this can complicate relationships with their families. The Bible says in Ephesians 6:4:
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
This means that we need to care for and train them with their emotional and mental needs in mind.
Practical example:
Give your teen encouragement and positive words that boost their confidence. Spend time together and empathize with their experiences and challenges.
3. Setting a positive example (1 Timothy 4:12)
Teenagers are often influenced by outside influences and the opinions of their peers. For this reason, our role is to set a positive example. The Bible says in 1 Timothy 4:12:
“Do not look down on others because you are young. Instead, set an example for them in faith, love, purity, spirit, and speech.”
Your actions and behavior can empower your teen and help them make good decisions.
Practical example:
Set a good example for your teen to understand the difference between right and wrong. Always try to maintain high moral standards in their presence, which will make them self-reliant and empowered.
4. Fighting cultural pressures (Romans 12:2)
In today’s society, teenagers face cultural pressures and different expectations from society. At this time, your role is to guide them based on God’s principles. Romans 12:2 says:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the new man who is in the mind of your mind.”
This passage suggests that we should be encouraged to avoid the world’s unwanted influences and live lives based on God’s principles.
Practical example:
Educate teens about the different influences in the world and the importance of making decisions with God’s guidance. Help them develop a positive outlook on social media and other influences.
5. Participating in prayer (Philippians 4:6–7)
Prayer is a powerful tool for teenagers. The process of being in God’s presence through prayer strengthens their morale and increases their confidence. Philippians 4:6-7 says:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds through Christ Jesus.”
This means that prayer, along with the problems of teenagers, can help them find peace and God’s guidance.
Practical example:
You can pray with your teen, spending time together seeking God’s will for their concerns and problems. This strengthens their inner peace and confidence.
6. The balance between freedom and responsibility (Galatians 5:1)
Teenagers want freedom, but they also need to be taught the importance of responsibility and living by God’s principles. Galatians 5:1 says:
“Stand firm for freedom, for Christ has set you free.”
Freedom here means the freedom to make decisions based on God’s will, which comes with responsibility and discernment.
Practical example:
Give your teen the freedom to make decisions, but make sure those decisions are based on God’s principles. Train them to make responsible decisions.
7. Spending more time with good friends (Proverbs 13:20)
Teenagers need good friends to spend time with. Choosing the right friends can give them a positive outlook and motivation. Proverbs 13:20 says:
“He who walks with caution walks with wise people, but he who has dealings with fools will suffer harm.”
This means that your teenager needs help choosing good friends.
Practical example:
Pay attention to your teen’s choice of friends. You can create an environment of healthy dialogue about peer relationships that will guide them on the right path.
8. Guiding with love and support (John 13:34)
Teenagers should always be guided with love and support. The Bible says in John 13:34:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also must love one another.”
Guiding your teenager with love and support will help them grow in confidence and love.
Practical example:
In the struggles of a teenager, you guide them with love and support. Understand their feelings and problems and try to be with them every step of the way, showing empathy.
conclusion
8 Ways to Help Your Teen Deal with Problems Not only are these ways to help with physical or emotional problems, they are all opportunities to live a life based on God’s guidance. By following Bible principles, you will be able to keep your teen on the right path and build trust and love.
