Dr. Floyd Godfrey
One of the most critical seasons in spiritual development is adolescence. As teens grow in independence, they begin to ask deeper questions about life, identity, and belief. While many teens may have grown up in a Christian home or attended church regularly, this stage often challenges them to move beyond a “borrowed faith” to one that is personal and rooted in genuine conviction. Parents and church leaders play a vital role in helping teens establish a faith that lasts—not one based on obligation, but one born out of a relationship with Jesus Christ.
From Inherited Faith to Personal Conviction
It is natural and even healthy for teenagers to question what they’ve been taught. Far from a sign of rebellion, this can be a sign that they are internalizing their beliefs and considering what it means to follow Christ for themselves. In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul writes to young Timothy: “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.”
Timothy’s faith had roots in his family, but it had become his own. That same transition is what we hope to see in our teens. Faith can begin with family, but it must eventually become personal.
Encouraging Honest Questions
Teens need safe spaces to ask hard questions about God, Scripture, and the world around them. If parents or church leaders respond with fear, shame, or simplistic answers, they risk pushing teens toward disconnection or skepticism. Instead, we must model humility, invite discussion, and reassure them that God is not threatened by our questions.
Jesus welcomed those who questioned Him. In Mark 9:24, a father says, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” That honest confession is a picture of how we can guide teens—by walking with them in both belief and doubt.
Prioritizing Relationship Over Rules
While biblical standards are essential, teens need to know that their relationship with Christ is not based on rules but on grace. Many young people walk away from the faith because they perceive it as a list of dos and don’ts rather than a living, breathing relationship with a Savior who loves them.
We must emphasize the Gospel—the good news that Jesus came not just to make bad people good, but to bring dead hearts to life. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” That is the foundation we want teens to build upon.
Modeling Authentic Faith at Home
Parents are one of the most significant influences on a teen’s faith. Teens are watching not just what we say, but how we live. Do they see us praying, reading Scripture, and turning to God in difficulty? Do they hear us speaking of God’s faithfulness in everyday life?
Imperfect examples can still powerfully point to Christ when we’re willing to be honest and humble. Let your teen see how you repent, seek forgiveness, and cling to God’s grace. Real faith is not about perfection, but about consistently turning to God.
Involving Teens in Community and Service
Faith grows through experience. Teens who are actively involved in Christian community—youth groups, small groups, service projects, mission trips—begin to see how their faith impacts the world. They realize they are part of something bigger than themselves.
Encourage your teen to serve, lead, and explore their gifts within the body of Christ. Help them discover how God can use their voice, talents, and passions for His glory. Ephesians 2:10 tells us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Praying for Their Faith Journey
Finally, perhaps the most important thing we can do is pray. Pray that your teen’s heart would be soft toward God. Pray for godly mentors, friendships, and moments of clarity. Pray for patience as they walk through their journey—sometimes fast, sometimes slow.
Faith is ultimately a work of the Holy Spirit. While we plant and water seeds, it is God who brings the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6). Trust that He is pursuing your teen, even in moments when it feels otherwise.
Floyd Godfrey PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed clinician for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.
