Teens often wrestle with insecurity, self-doubt and peer pressure, not to mention the constant bombardment of media images and false ideals. As teens struggle to answer "Who am I?" you have the opportunity to ground their self-esteem in Christ through verbal affirmation that is rooted in the truth of God’s Word.

Watch for opportunities to encourage teens. Thank them when you catch them doing something right. Praise them for using a particular God-given skill or trait. Seek ways to remind your teens of how uniquely God has created them and how they are precious in His sight.

Use the following questions to open a discussion about what it means to have self-esteem rooted in God.

What do you see when you look in the mirror?
Listen for cues as to where your teens draw their definitions of self-worth or beauty.

How does the Bible’s view of one’s self image differ from the perspective of our culture? Which is harder for you to accept? Why?
Consider sharing 1 Samuel 16:7 and the story of Samuel anointing David.

What are you good at? What do you love to do?
Teens draw confidence from successfully accomplishing tasks or exercising abilities. Find ways to help your teens recognize and use their gifts.

What messages do you give your teens about your own self-esteem?
Honestly share a struggle from your own life or teen years and explain how God worked to overcome it.


From Focus on Your Child’s Teen Phases, January 2009. Published by Focus on the Family. © 2009 Focus on the Family. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Used by permission.

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