Teen's Advice To Parents About Nurturing Spiritual Growth

These are Teen's Advice To Parents About Nurturing Spiritual Growth.

Be involved! 
Talk to your kids about God, and pray with each child specifically about his or her concerns.  Also don't forget to always talk to God about your kids and also bless them during their sleep.

Talk about it!
You must be sensitive with the struggles that your kids are going through, and don't discount it or take it for granted.  You can also relate your experiences as a young person.  When my kids were young, they love (and even urge us) to tell them about our childhood experiences which usually started with "During our early childhood years..."  or "When I was just a young boy/ girl..." You could really see the excitement on their faces as they listen to the story.  Verbally and practically, create a 'safe' environment.

Take time to pray with your teens.
We do this every night, before going to bed, and every morning, at the start of the day.  We pray as we drove to school. This shows that the parent truly cares about what is going on in her or his teen's life.  Encourage them to get involved in Christian groups, and find Christian music they enjoy.  Music really is powerful in affecting an individual, so be sure to plug them in to the good music!

Have a relationship with your teen, and talk openly and often about your faith.
Real relationship means that you really relate with your teen.  You know them deeply and not only knowing what and when they need something.  You let them feel that you really care for them and you are there when they need you especially during hard or crucial moments,  when they have some questions in mind about life that would probably be difficult for them to find the answers.  You could treat them as your friend.

Spend time in God's Word with them.  Pray with them and for them. Open doors of communication by creating a 'safe' environment.  It's like telling them that your teens could approach you anytime of the day and you are there to listen to them and talk with them.  Explain that God does not wait on the edge of His seat for us to make mistakes so He can judge us.  He loves us and wants us to walk in His grace.

Being a parent is a great opportunity of reflecting the image of our loving heavenly Father.  This is one way to disciple them to be Christ-like.

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5 Tips to Discipline Your Teens

Here are four ways to practice the kind of discipline that helps your teens become and eager spiritual learners.

1. Give your teen boundaries.

Have you notice along the farms where cows are grazing?  They are always located near the fence!
It is also the same with our children, especially our teens.  You should define and give your boundaries for your teen.  Boundaries that are fully understood and could be followed.

2. Show firmness with your decision but mercy and love should not be left out. 

Sometimes it is advisable that, when you impose discipline and punishment upon your child, you should try to suffer the penalty along with him or her.  By doing this, you are teaching him or her about compassion and love.  You are actually reflecting the message of why did God sent His Son to die on the cross our behalf.  To pay for the penalty of our sins, since He is sinless.

3. Do not relinquish your parental authority too soon.

You should instill in the mind of your children that you are still the voice of authority over their lives.  It is because you love them so much and you don't want them to wander away from the right path.  You could give them freedom that they are ready to handle given their age and sense of responsibility.  But giving penalty or discipline should still be imposed in cases that there are disobedience made.

4. Limit activities that are not worthwhile.

Having fun is good for your relationship with your kids.  But too much watching videos and movies, strolling the malls, and playing video games can rob us out of quality time.  Spending time reading a Bible story or a child's devotional book must also be a priority in instilling moral values for children.  You should practice taking a 30 minute period of rest daily with your teen.

5. Think long-term.

Train your child to build a good character by himself or herself.  Teach him or her to practice self-control and controlling his or her temper or other negative behavior.  Do not forget to praise him or her when you see progress and development towards good behavior.

Giving the right kind of discipline to your teens will not only help you gain your teen's respect, but in the long run, will also give you and your children a lasting relationship for both of you to cherish.

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