It is hard growing up. In the short time leading to adulthood, a child can experience a wide variety of issues, tragedies, heartbreaks, losses, mistakes and disappointments. And, in the world teens are living in today, these challenges are compounded in ways that are hard for older generations to comprehend.
Sometimes, when children are experiencing the trials of life, the only thing that helps is knowing someone understands how they are feeling. Dealing with hurt can feel isolating and oppressive. In other words, it feels like the entire world is out to get them. So, hearing a word of advice or encouragement from someone that has been in their shoes can do wonders for making them feel normal and accepted.
Teens need to know that help is found in the adults in their lives at home and at church. Parents, grandparents, preachers, elders, and older men and women at church have valuable things to say to teenagers. There is no doubt that today’s particular challenges are very different from what they had to deal with. But, that fact was still true when they were teenagers. The 60-year-old sister who has been married for 40 years was living in a world just as different from her elders as it is today. The Bible tells us in Ecclesiastes 1:9, “…That which has been is what will be, that which is done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.” While the names and forms of issues change, their core causes stay the same.
Any teen reading this should know that while their elders never had to deal with online bullying or influencer culture, they understand what it is like to be ashamed, embarrassed, mocked, ridiculed or unloved. These feelings have always been present, and our seniors already learned to overcome them. Imagine what they can share with you to help you with your challenges. “My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother; For they will be a graceful ornament on your head, And chains about your neck” (Prov. 1:8-9).
Likewise, any older Christians reading this must accept their responsibility to give sound advice to the teens in their lives (cf. Tit. 2:6-8). If we are finding it difficult to relate, then look at the example of our Lord Jesus who did everything He needed to do in order to reach us. “Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people” (Heb. 2:17). You can relate if you’re willing to try.
God understands our needs. And He has given us the church to guide the youth through any trial they face.