The teenage years are pivotal for identity formation. In a world that bombards teens with messages about who they should be, what they should value, how they should act, even down to how they should dress, guiding them to root their identity in Christ is both challenging and vital. As parents, you have the opportunity to help your teens navigate these cultural pressures and discover their unshakable identity in Jesus. In the booming age of social media vying for their attention, let’s help them stand firm on the firm foundation and what He says about them! Here are 3 practical things you can do with them to help them stay rooted in their identity in Christ:
1. Teach Them Who They Are in Christ
The foundation of a Christ-centered identity is understanding what Scripture says about who we are. We can’t fight lies and pressures when we don’t know what is actually true! Regularly remind teens of truths such as:
- They are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)
- They are chosen and dearly loved (Colossians 3:12).
- They are God’s workmanship, created for good works (Ephesians 2:10).
Encourage them to memorize these verses and reflect on what they mean. When teens internalize these truths, they are better equipped to resist the false identities offered by the world.
2. Engage in Open and Honest Conversations
Create a safe space for teens to express their thoughts, doubts, and struggles. Listen without judgment and guide them back to God’s Word. They have thoughts about the things the world is feeding them. They need a judgement-free zone where they can talk these things out, work them out with the Lord, and find truth. Discuss topics like social media, peer pressure, and societal expectations, helping them discern truth from lies. Equip them with a biblical lens to evaluate the messages they encounter daily.
3. Pray for and With Them
Prayer is one of the most powerful ways to support teens. Pray for their protection, wisdom, and growth in Christ. Invite them to join you in prayer, fostering a habit of seeking God in all areas of their lives. Make the first response to pressures of the world be prayer. To simply sit down and say, “God is ___ true? What do you say about this?” Let them know they are never alone—God is always with them, and so are you.
Helping teens root their identity in Christ amid cultural pressures is a journey that requires patience, love, and persistence. The Lord has picked you as their parent to guide them in discovering the joy and freedom of living as children of God. Remember, you are planting seeds and watering the soil; trust that their Creator will bring the growth!
Aubrie Kimbrough
Media and Mobilization Manager
Photo by Qim Manifester on Unsplash