Imagine being asked to mentor a group of teenagers. You might think, “Wait, how can I relate to them? Things have changed so much since I was their age!” It’s true, the world teens navigate today is different from ours. But here’s the good news: the core things they need haven’t changed.
The Gap Between Generations
Mentoring teens can feel daunting. Technology has transformed communication, entertainment, and even friendships. Back in the day, we had landline phones and waited a week for our favorite TV show. Now, information and entertainment are at our fingertips.
It’s easy to forget the pressures of being a teenager – the social groups, the desire to fit in, the stress over grades and relationships. But those feelings are timeless. What teens need most isn’t someone who understands the latest trends, but someone who can offer guidance and support.
Five Ways Mentors Can Make a Difference
- Exploring God’s Word Together: The Bible holds wisdom for every stage of life. As a mentor, you can help teens learn about God’s love, power, and direction. You can show them how the Bible can be a guiding light in their everyday lives.
- Discovering Identity in Christ: Figuring out who you are is a big part of being a teenager. Teens often seek validation from friends, achievements, or even looks. Mentors can help them understand that their true identity comes from being part of God’s family.
- Making Faith Relevant: How does faith fit into everyday life? Teens face challenges at school, with friends, and in the world around them. Mentors can help them navigate these situations by showing them how their beliefs can guide their actions.
- Creating a Safe Space: Mentorship is about building trust. Teens need a safe place to share their joys, struggles,and dreams. A good mentor listens without judgment and offers support.
There may be times when a teen shares something concerning. In those cases, a mentor should encourage them to talk to their parents and offer to be there for support. It’s also important to follow established guidelines from your church youth program regarding what needs to be shared with parents
5. The Power of Prayer: Prayer is a powerful way to connect with God and strengthen your relationship with your mentee. Praying together shows them that you care and are there for them. Sharing prayer requests and praising God for answered prayers builds a sense of community and faith.
A Shared Journey of Faith
Mentoring teens can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding. By sharing your faith and offering support, you can make a lasting impact on a young person’s life. Remember, the most important thing is to be present and authentic. Together, through pipelines like YoungLife, Lost Canyon, and Christ Church of the Valley, we can guide the next generation towards a deeper relationship with Christ.