“Do not be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life, instead be filled with the Holy Spirit” Ephesians 5:18
I am not surprised at the information I read in articles and websites about smoking, drinking and drugs amongst teens. Even though the government says they are educating teenagers on the dangers of these things, society is still influencing teens through advertising, movies and music teaching them that it is cool to engage in such activities. Unfortunately these activities are typical among teens today. I believe this is caused by poor relationships between teenagers and their families and friends.
I feel that society is making a difference in some areas such as preventative commercials, introducing the “care card” as identification and bringing more awareness to schools. The fines for the people responsible for selling alcohol and cigarettes to teens have greatly increased over the years, making them more careful about whom they sell to. In Mark 9:42 it states “If anyone causes one of these children who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone tied around his neck”. This shows that those responsible for leading teens into temptation are in danger themselves.
I would suggest that teenagers develop better relationships with their families, choose their friends wisely and make sure they have a Youth Pastor to go to in times of need. Teens need to be aware of the consequences of their actions, instead of focusing on the social acceptance they think they will gain. Teens also need to learn how to say no and not be ashamed of that. Teens should know that they don’t need to drink, smoke or take drugs to fit in. In my belief, these activities may lead to future sin. I also believe that if teens had a closer relationship with God, there would be less of these activities pursued by young people today. In Romans 6:23 it clearly states “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Hi Grace,
ReplyDeleteYou're right on all counts; all those things factor into teen behaviour. Our relationship with God reminds us not to sin; parents need to be firm in their non-acceptance of these behaviours, and society needs to take a stand, via movies, advertising, etc, to say these things are not cool. And also important is the company of friends -- teens are largely influenced by their friends -- hence the argument, 'everyone's doing it.' I remember using that argument. To which my wise mom replied, 'we're not talking about everyone else, we're talking about you.'
That's an important role our youth groups play -- to show kids who may have other exposures that these behaviours are harmful, physically and spiritually. We are fortunate to have in our community a stellar program for youths. Let's pray for the kids not yet in that stream, that they might discover happiness in the Lord instead of drugs, alcohol and other sinful behaviours.
Sylvia