Christian youth today are faced with many challenges that were
unimaginable a few decades ago. Understanding these struggles can
help parents know the most appropriate way to help any child trying to
navigate to adulthood with sustained faith. Many of these challenges
originate from media and technology as well as pressure from both
peers and society as a whole.
In the technological age, it seems we are able to access just about
anything instantly. This is a wonderful blessing for young Christians as
they seek out faith-building music, videos, and devotionals. However,
just as easily accessed, if not more so, are music, videos, and articles
filled with immoral content. With a few taps on a phone, children can
listen to music glorifying rape and drugs, watch videos showing illicit
sexual acts, and read articles full of profane and vulgar language. Youth
may accidentally stumble across these things, but because they are
presented in an appealing package, they may feel tempted to seek out
similar content.
Preemptive measures can reduce exposure to inappropriate media,
including parental locks and filters on computers and phones. However,
this is unlikely to remove it all. Creating an environment where children
can feel good and immediately recognize evil is essential. Filling the
home with images that provoke thoughts of Christ can help young
Christians to know when they see or hear something that pulls
thoughts away from Him.
Praying and reading scripture as a family can also help create a spiritual
sensitivity in each child. Building trust in this way can help children feel
confident in speaking with their parents, when they come across
something that makes them uncomfortable such as profanity or
pornography. Open dialogue is essential when facing these challenges
together.
Another challenge is peer pressure. Christian youth are surrounded by
young people who are not living by the same moral standards. As societal
morality changes, many young Christians will find their beliefs
different, and sometimes even at odds with those of their friends. This
can affect both their faith and conduct. Children will find themselves
making difficult decisions, which at times can be between their beliefs
and their friends. Youths can find themselves discouraged and their
faith diminished if uncertain how to face these challenges.
An important tactic for parents when it comes to this struggle is
building up self-esteem in their children. By making sure it is illustrated
in words and actions, parents can make each child feel important and
loved by the family as well as God. Parents can also encourage their
children to attend Christian youth groups. Being surrounded by those
with similar beliefs often creates a positive peer pressure, forming a
desire in each child to do good. These friends can help encourage faith
in each other instead of attempting to tear it down.
Parents sharing their own challenges and victories will encourage
young people facing the challenges of today. As parents prayerfully
consider the needs of each child, they will be guided to help each
individual.