Train Your Teenager to Serve Jehovah

"Jesus went on progressing in wisdom and in physical growth and in favor with God and men." -LUKE 2:52. 

CHRISTIAN parents have few joys like that of watching their child get baptized.  "It was a highly emotional experience for us. We were, of course, grateful that our children wanted to serve Jehovah," says Bernice, whose four children were baptized before they turned 14.   "But," she adds,  "we also knew that as teenagers our children would face many challenges." You may understand Bernice's concern if your child is a  teenager or is approaching adolescence.

While acknowledging that adolescence can be challenging for parents and teenagers alike, one expert on child development states: "Adolescence is not a period of being 'crazy' or 'immature.'  It is an essential time of emotional intensity, social engagement, and creativity."  While they are teenagers, your children can develop a more meaningful friendship with Jehovah, set and pursue goals in the ministry, and use more initiative as they make their dedication and live up to it.  They may find adolescence to be a rewarding time of spiritual growth, even as Jesus did when he was young.  (Read Luke 2:52)  What role do you as a parent play during those crucial years?  Consider how Jesus, after he grew into adulthood, manifested love, humility, and insight. How can these qualities  help you to train your teenager to serve Jehovah? 

Next time: Train Your Teenager to Serve Jehovah -LOVE YOUR TEENAGER

From The Watchtower magazine