My teenager will soon be entering high school, despite my best efforts to make time stand still. I must admit that I am nervous and a bit sad for this transition.

Parenting a teenager can be so difficult at times and so rewarding the next. Teenagers are faced with many challenges, school work becomes tougher, hormones are raging (seriously, can we talk about attitude?!), friendships begin to change, and they’re trying to fine their place in the world.

Through all of this life phase, the most important thing I want him to remember is who he is in Christ. He is made in His image and is loved unconditionally. He is a child of God. He has been given the armor of God and instructions to fight the daily battles and temptations. All of which are in scripture, the guide to life.

All scripture is breathed out by God, and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

I know he will make mistakes, and it is crucial for me, as his parent, to be open minded, forgiving, nonjudgmental, extend grace, and direct him back in the right path with God’s guidance. I will make mistakes too and will need to accept God’s grace and forgiveness in those moments.

Although watching him grow is bittersweet, I am beyond thankful that God has chosen me to be his mom. I have been blessed beyond measure. I hope and pray that my son sees all his blessings and continues to follow Christ.

And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all of his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Blessed shall you be..

Deuteronomy 28:1-3

Living by grace,

Misty