Belle’s advice on being a Christian teen

by Belle O.

Like most religions, those who practice Christianity, including many at AHS, are no strangers to hardships, as the tenets of their religion often conflict with the pressures of the modern world. In our current generation we are faced with many temptations to fit in with the worldly norm. There are many walls that we as believers can’t go beyond. While a club for Christianity exists here at Airport High, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), many teens still struggle with their religion and so here's my advice on how to cope. 

1. Daily affirmations

Staying positive in a negative environment will help you prevail. Some examples of things you can say are “My God will protect me”, “One day, it will all be worth the trouble”, or “I will stay strong in my given circumstances.” Don’t let anyone get you down because God loves you and you were made in His eyes. 

1. Blocking out the noise

One thing you have to learn is that everyone is going to have something to say about everyone. Most want a reaction out of you and as believers, the only reaction you should allow is positive. Some examples of responses are “I’ll pray for you”, “I hope your heart changes”, or “I'm sorry you feel that way. I hope my actions make you feel differently.” Sometimes it’s difficult to not say something you’ll later regret but you have to remember what would Jesus do?

1. Prayer

God is the only one who can get you through hard times. Turn to Him in your times of doubt. Christianity is based on working for your relationship with God. Pray for guidance from Him to get you through your struggles. 

1. Scripture

If you have access to a Bible app, you’re able to look up verses to help you. If you are worried go to John 14, for understanding turn to 1 Corinthians 5:15, if being bullied go to John 15. There are so many verses in the Bible that can help with most problems. A verse that keeps me going is “...I have heard your prayers and seen your tears; I will heal you...” 2 Kings 20:5. 

1. Church Support

Church is a great place to learn more about God or to find comfort. If you aren’t in a youth group, I suggest that you find one. They allow you to be with fellow believers who are your age. Most churches have youth pastors that can be a trusted adult. Allow church to be a safe space for you.

1. Friends

Who you surround yourself with determines how you are seen. Find friends who will encourage you to be the best version of yourself. If you are hanging with a bad crowd, you yourself can end up distancing from God. Encourage your non believer friends to come to church or share the gospel with them. At first it may come off as weird or embarrassing to you, but they may need it.

1. Faith

Let others see the light of God in you. Don't be ashamed of the gospel. As a Christian, it’s your job to spread God’s word. Find ways to kindly encourage your peers. Ways to spread the Gospel is a prayer mirror in the bathroom, put Scripture notes on someone's windshield, attend FCA meetings, and let your social media posts uplift God. Don’t cheat your friends or peers out of eternal life with Him. 

1. Secular Music

Based on study.com secular music is music that’s intended for a non-religious audience. Many artists today are producing demonic music and it’s normalized. Examples of these artists are Doja Cat, Lil Nas X, Melanie Martinez, etc. Listen to music that praises God, not the world. I would recommend some artists like For King & Country, Lauren Daigle, Elevation Worship, or Hillsong Music. 

1. Lifestyle

Reading your bible and praying are essentials for your daily life. There are many different parts of the bible that can help with problems you may have. Uplift Him everyday and show Him off. 

1. Modesty

Fashion trends change all the time. The bible speaks on modesty which is dressing in a way that's not revealing. This doesn’t mean you have to dress like a nun. There are many cute ways to present yourself. Leggings, jeans without too many holes, blouses, etc.

Even though this is my advice, other voices deserve to be heard. I asked Junior Lauren C. what her advice to christian teens. She replied “Making time to pray and read the bible helps.” The next interviewee is another Junior. I asked Braelyn A. the same question. She said “Don’t hang around the wrong crowd. Be friends with someone who influences you to be better.”

In conclusion, it's not easy being a Christian teen. With religious views or opinions in general, hardships will come. Don’t give a reaction to those who want a fight. Stay true to yourself and never give up on God and His love.