Jesus Cares For Teens
There have been many seasons where my relationship with Christ has grown exponentially, most notably in my teen years. When my parents divorced right before my freshman year of high school, it felt like the ground shifted right out from underneath me. The people who were the rocks in my life were now undeniably human, and for the first time in my life, I found myself searching for something more stable. There, in the searching, is where Jesus became my best friend. Jesus presents the same opportunity to teens today in their own struggles. Jesus cares for teens.
Teenage Depression
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
Teens who wrestle with depression often need a safe space to find rest from the pressures found in their environment. Jesus’ death on the cross completely paid the price for all sin. This payment creates an opportunity for teens to come to Jesus just as they are, without having to get rid of their shame, fears, or questions. Adolescents who are feeling depressed find hope in knowing they are safe with Jesus, and can find the strength to keep going with Him.
Teenage Anxiety
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:5-7 NIV
Teens who struggle with anxiety tend to worry about things they cannot control. Jesus provides a space for them to let go of things they cannot control and give them to a compassionate and kind Savior. While this is not to guarantee what they want to happen will happen, it does help them remember that God is good, regardless of the outcome. This brings the “peace surpassing understanding” and gives them the ability to grow despite their surroundings.
Teenage Pride
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV
Pride can be both puffed up and full of shame. Jesus rescues teens from making their lives all about them. Adolescents now have the freedom to own their mistakes and grow from them, because there is no condemnation in Christ (Romans 8:1). When a teen gives Jesus all of the honor and glory, they no longer feel the need to be in the spotlight. God’s grace that flows from the cross means teens don’t have to worry about being good enough.
Teenage Drug Abuse
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.”
Galatians 4:4-7 NIV
Teens often seek drug abuse for coping mechanisms or as an avenue to fit in. Unfortunately, drugs only temporarily numb the pain and often contribute to future pain. Through Jesus, teens find a family of believers who can come alongside them and support them in their healing journey. When teens find their worth in Christ, the need for the approval of their peers lessens. Jesus brings teens new life and new ways to walk through hard times.
Contact us today
Not only will our counselors help you find freedom from the struggles in your life and relationships. We are also very well versed in helping you understand what God might be saying to you through His word. Please click here to learn much more about how Life Training Christian Counseling in Louisville, Kentucky can help you find freedom from whatever you may be struggling with.
We offer convenient sessions at our office in Louisville, Kentucky, as well as online counseling via Zoom or FaceTime. Contact us today at 502-717-5433, or by email at drdave@lifetrainingcounseling.org