RAISING ADOLESCENTS The Role of Wisdom

"A Changing, Developing Person"

There is no doubt that parents of adolescents face a daunting task.  At times, they will likely shed tears of frustration as they strive to bring up their children "in the discipline and mental regulating of Jehovah." -Ephesians 6:4.

In the end, effecting parenting is, not about controlling, but about teaching and instilling proper values.  (Deuteronomy 6:6-9) Easier said than done? Absolutely.  "We are dealing with a changing, developing person," says Greg, quoted earlier.  "This means that we must continually get to know and adjust to that new person." 

Strive to apply the Bible principles discussed in this article.  Be reasonable in what you expect from your children. But never relinquish your place as the primary role model in their life. The Bible says:  "Train up a boy according to the way for him; even when he grows old he will turn aside from it." -Proverbs 22:6. 

Extending Freedom

Often teenagers want more freedom than they should have. At the same time, some parents tend to extend less freedom than they could.  Somewhere between the two extremes, there is a balance. How can you find it? For a start, you may want to consider the list below. In which areas is your son or daughter demonstrating responsible behavior?  

O Choice of friends                           O Completing schoolwork

O Choice of clothing                          O Apologizing for errors

O Budgeting money                            O Other

O Adhering to curfew

O Finishing chores 

If your adolescent is already demonstrating maturity in a number of above areas, why not think of some ways you can extend further trust?

Next time: THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT -When Is Self-Defense Justified? 

From the Awake! magazine