Most grandparents I know question what they can do for their teenage grandchildren to help them get through the sometimes challenging teen years. They often remark that, “After all, I didn’t do as well as I had hoped in the first round.”
To address that common concern, here is one simple thing you can do that will make a difference.
According to Pew Research, the average adult who uses texting to communicate, sends and receives a median of 10 texts per day; a teenager who texts sends and receives a median of 50 texts per day. Three out of ten teen texters send and receive over 100 messages per day! Clearly, to reach teens you need to text. The medium is theirs but the content can be yours.
Try being intentional when you text your grandchildren. You have an extremely powerful message to share – the Word of God. There are many passages in the Bible that just might speak to the hearts of your teens as they go through those troublesome days and years. Along with “How are you?” and “I hope you’re having a great day!”, consider texting the words of life to them. Here are some scriptures to get you started. Send one today!
- For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. The Bible (Jeremiah 29:11)
- May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Bible (Romans 15:13)
- Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. The Bible (Deuteronomy 31:6)
- Do to others as you would have them do to you. The Bible (Luke 6:31)
- Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. The Bible (Isaiah 41:10)
- Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Jesus Christ, The Bible (Matthew 11:28-30)
To be continued…
Pili Abouchaar is the Director of Grandly, the mother of two, and lives in Lansing, Michigan.