Teen
Peer Pressure vs. Parental Pressure
We
can all agree that one of the most
unfortunate experiences for a teenager
is another teenager.
God
has so designed us to learn. Very often,
teens
are driven not by knowledge, but
peer pressure. The lack of knowledge
combined with teen peer pressure is a
deadly combination. Teenagers
need parental pressure that is governed
by the wisdom of God (Proverbs
29:15). God has always intended for
the parents to nurture their children
and not leave them to their imagination
(Eph. 6:1,4) and the intoxication of
peer pressure.
Why
is peer pressure so dangerous?
Peer
pressure does not enforce nor encourage
accountability. Peer pressure has for
its main emphasis: do as I do, look
as I look, talk as I talk... etc.
Even worse, teen peer pressure is void
of real life experience. Teens are
not inclined to look ahead... they look
only at themselves in the now.
Thank God that there are teenagers who
are discerning and realize the dangers
that come from an environment that is
void of the knowledge of God. Teenagers
of this sort do not arrive to a godly
conclusion by virtue of teen peer
pressure. But by parents and authorities
who's lives are not riddled with
contradiction concerning the things of
God.
What
Kind Of Environment Should Parents
Provide?
Three
essentials that must be enforced in the
life of
a
teen-ager that will result in salvation
and godliness:
#1: Limitations.
A parent must understand that children
must be placed under limitations. It
will safe-guard their life (Genesis.3:3).
Limitations are intended to enlighten.
Limitations are to be enforced with
consistency and consequences when
breached.
#2. Laughter.
Parents must initiate a home environment
where laughter is consistent (Proverbs.
17:22). A happy teen is a teachable
teen.
#3: Loved.
Above all else, a parent must nurture a
deep felt love in the heart of their
children (1
John 3:1). A teen who knows he or
she is loved will learn to trust the
right authorities and influences and
discriminate against contradictions to
God's Word and will.
These three essential will breed a
pattern of godly choices that will guide
your child, teenager into adult-hood for
the glory of God.
Sincerely, Dr. Arthur Belanger
What
Teenagers Needs To Know About
Jesus:
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Invitation
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