10 Ways to Make a Difference in a Teen’s Life

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my disclosure for more info.

A couple months back, my husband received the news that his high school coach unexpectedly went to Heaven. His heart was broken for several reasons, but the main reason was because he loved his coach. When he described the time he spent with his coach throughout his teen years, I knew this man had made an investment in his life that was never forgotten.

I’ve never forgotten the influences from my teen years either. The ball games, the youth rallies, roller skating nights (just dated myself right there)…I remember all the activities. But even more than that, I remember the little deposits of wisdom, the chats, and the devotions.

With my oldest daughter just getting married last summer, I reflect frequently on how thankful I am that she is a responsible, hard-working, God-honoring girl. And I began to think of the differences in our culture and society compared to when I was a teen.

How can we make a difference in our teens’ lives today? Maybe the teen is in your Sunday School class, your neighborhood, or your own family. Maybe your role is dad, aunt, teacher, coach, neighbor or youth worker. No matter the role, here are 10 ways to make a difference in a teen’s life.

1. Pray for them.

When you feel like you  know what to do and you don’t know what to do, pray for them.

2. Listen to them.

When they are ready to talk, make time to listen.

3.  Write a note.

I have letters and cards from my mom while I was in college that I treasure even more since she’s in Heaven.

4. Feed them.

While you’re listening, make a mental note of the chips they like or the candy they are eating and provide it when there is an opportunity.

5. Provide transportation.

Just being the taxi is an important service! And while you are taxi-driving, you can listen. 🙂

6. Notice the positives and pay a compliment.

Praise from an adult goes a long way.

7. Promote new creativity.

Put a guitar in a kid’s hand for the first time. Take them to an art store.

8. Encourage them to dream big and work hard.

My husband said his coach taught him a “never quit” mentality.

9. Join them on social media.

Be where the teen is. I joined Facebook in 2009 when my oldest was headed off to college. The site you’re visiting now is a result of that decision. God can use anything in our lives to lead us where He plans to use us!

10. Provide Christian literature or recommend apps.

The first devotional I can remember reading was a graduation gift- Streams in the Desert. Devotionals for teens’ and children were not as readily available as they are today. And there definitely was no such thing as an app. If you click here, you’ll find Devotional apps and here is a list of the Bible apps I recommend.

And this brand new devotional from Max Lucado, One God, One Plan, One Life is a 365 devotional specifically designed and written for teens. This devotional is perfect for encouraging a daily quiet time and developing a personal relationship with God. I thought you would enjoy seeing a preview:

I’m excited to be giving one away today because one of the questions I receive frequently is

Can you recommend a teen devotional?

If you’d like to purchase this devotional, you can do so right here.

And I know you want to enter the giveaway! Just follow the Rafflecopter and I’ll see you tomorrow!

Rachel

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Site may be compensated if purchase is made. Post includes affiliate links. Product provided by publisher; all opinions are my own. See full disclosure here.