Keys to Family Happiness/WHEN YOUR ADOLESCENT QUESTIONS YOUR FAITH - The Value of a Mentor

Sometimes youths are helped when an adult outside the family provides encouragement.  Do you know someone whose spiritual outlook could be an inspiration to your adolescent?  Why not arrange for him or her to spend time with your son or daughter?  Your purpose is not to abdicate your responsibility.  But think of Timothy. He benefited greatly from the apostle Paul's example, and Paul benefited by having Timothy as a companion. - PHILIPPIANS 2:20, 22.

TRY THIS: Go back to the basics with your adolescent, revisiting subjects  that you-and he-might have taken for granted. For example, have him think about such  questions as:  'What convinces me that there is a God?  What evidence do I observe that shows that God cares about me?  Why do I feel that it is always in my best interests to obey God's laws? Be careful not force your views on your adolescent. Instead, help him develop his own convictions.  That way he will find it easier to build confidence in his faith.

Next time: Keys to Family Happiness/WHEN YOUR ADOLESCENT QUESTIONS YOUR FAITH- "Persuaded to Believe"

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