Being around teenagers for the last semester has taught me more than I thought it could. I taught English at Thunderbird Adventist Academy in Arizona, where I was able to experience the full splendor of working with teenagers. Trust me, they’re just as crazy as you remember. I began to learn more about their interactions with God and how similar they were to my own experiences.
According to Dr. David Trim, the director of the Office of Archives, Statistics, and Research at the General Conference, about 65 percent of people leaving the church are young adults. Clearly, the need for keeping young generations in the church is pressing, and many churchgoers struggle with understanding their role in this issue.
I wanted to know how we, as a church and family, can create environments where teenagers feel free to abide with God, so I interviewed six students ages 15-19. My goal was to see how they connect with God, and ultimately, what I can do to help support them.
I started by asking them what they think the phrase “abide in God” means. Many of the students talked about a similar theme: trusting in God. Riley told me it means to “give all to God.” Brookie echoed that sentiment, saying it means putting all your trust in God and giving your worries to Him. I particularly like Abi’s answer: “It means to live your life for God and show your character to other people so they can experience what God means to you.”
To follow up, I asked about the specific activities they use to abide in God. I received an array of responses such as music, nature, praying and reading the Bible. But one thing I found in common with most of the students is that they value people and how they show Jesus. Brookie mentioned her appreciation for seeing Jesus in the way other people respond to tough situations, and both Abi and Johanna told me they saw Jesus through the character of others.
These students painted a wholesome and easy perspective of abiding in God, but I wanted to know what barriers they have in connecting to God. Ironically, most students brought back the same answer to the previous question: people.
Cora answered that overbearing and controlling people can distract her from God. Riley made sure to mention the distinction between God and religion, saying, “Religion is not necessary to have a relationship with God. You are not saved by religion/man, but only by God can you be saved.”
I finished by asking what adults could do to support them in their spiritual journeys. Brookie explained the importance of having adults you can trust so you “… can really come to them for help when [you] need it.” Most students expressed similar ideas. They want mentors who will support them and be understanding of their personal journey.
However, Abi looked puzzled when I asked this question. She told me, “I haven’t really thought about adults helping me. It’s my responsibility to have a relationship with God.” I was struck by her maturity and responsibility. Rather than relying on other people, we need to develop the habit of creating a relationship with God. Once that habit is formed, we have a basis to continue that relationship and share with others on our journey.
Expert Advice
Pastor Rich Carlson, Union College chaplain for 39 years, offered this advice for supporting teenagers: “Don’t panic.” He explained that teenagers are going to make mistakes, but they will learn from their mistakes. Adults have to keep in mind the big picture and remember that teenagers are not only learning how to become adults, but how Jesus fits into all of that. Don’t get frustrated. Think back to your own time as a teenager for perspective.
Teenagers are looking to connect with God with the help of mentors they can trust. The church needs to support its young people by developing relationships with them.
Numbers chapter 8 relays God’s plan for the Levites in ministry. They start leading at 25, then retire at 50. That means for teenagers and young adults, we need to be mentoring and training members to lead in the church, and as we get closer to 50, we should be focusing on leaving the leadership role and moving into the mentoring role.
While we’re training young people, we should talk to them about their interests, school life, struggles and ideas. Be open to what they have to say; be a safe place for them to explore their beliefs. And remember, don’t panic.
Imagine what our church would look like if every teenager felt like they belonged, mattered and had a purpose.
Ashley Bower is an English language arts education major graduating in May 2020.
