The thrill of driving, the freedom to ignore homework, the delight of staying on the computer all night long—teens love to assert their independence. They hold tight to a "my way is the best way" attitude that influences the choices they make during these formative years. Sometimes that attitude protects them from peer pressure; other times it drives them to settle for less than God's best.

 

Could the power of the Resurrection and the hope of eternity actually make a difference for a teen who is torn between choosing God's will and doing his own thing?

 

As parents, we get to be the voice reminding teens that pleasing Christ is better than pleasing self. Living with an eternal perspective can help them see that the joy of living forever in God's presence far outweighs the momentary satisfaction of getting their own way.

 

The same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to strengthen our teens to make wise choices today (Romans 8:11-14). Ask your teen about choices they've watched her friends make that were not pleasing to God. Were there any disappointing consequences? Ask your teen if his friends have shared stories about decisions they regret. Share honestly about your own teenage choices to either choose God's best or have things your way.

 

Now remind your teen that God has provided all they need to live a life pleasing to Him—both now and forever (2 Peter 1:3). Encourage your teen to trust God for the strength to do His will, and pray that the hope of eternity will empower them to choose wisely (Colossians 1:10-12).

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—T.F. Edwords

From ThrivingFamily.com. Copyright ©2012 Focus on the Family. Used by permission.