Youth Ministry Blog

Hey y’all!

I’m sorry I didn’t post last week - I was home sick, and it slipped my mind. 

This week, I want to talk about adult life. Whether you’re excited about it or scared of it, one day, you’ll be an adult. “Adulting” brings with it a whole host of joys and sufferings, both expected and unexpected ones. It brings responsibilities and decisions, and it brings freedoms and opportunities. It’s overwhelming and exhausting, but it’s also an exciting adventure. 

I wish someone had told me this. I wish I hadn’t spent my teenage years resenting them and dreaming of adulthood. I wish I had instead been preparing - laying the groundwork to be the most successful adult I could be. I want to help you avoid some of my mistakes. So without further ado, here are 15 things I’d tell my teenage self:

1. Pray. Pray every single day. For at least 30 minutes. No matter what.
2. It’s not actually cool to disrespect your parents and teachers. They care about your well-being, and they’re trying their best.
3. Adults don’t actually have it all figured out, especially those in their 20s.
4. Wait to date. Seriously.
5. Start saving money and budgeting now. 
6. Put the phone down. Those texts can wait.
7. Stay away from social media for as long as possible.
8. Set boundaries, and stick to them.
9. You’re never going to be perfect; mistakes are part of life and part of learning.
10. Stop letting others determine your worth. You were made in the image and likeness of God - He determines your worth.
11. Call your family members and friends who you don’t get to see often. It’ll be good for both of you.
12. God is the only constant. Things change. Try to accept that.
13. It’s okay to ask for help.
14. Maintain healthy habits. If you think it’s hard now, just wait 5-10 years.
15. Expect the unexpected.

I know some of these things are clichés, but they are true nonetheless. Maybe none of this will be helpful to you, and that’s okay. I would encourage you to ask the adults in your life this question: “what would you tell your teenage self?” Take note of their answers. Something someone says will probably be able to help you. 

I don’t want you to dread adulthood, but I don’t want you to resent adolescence either. Be realistic, be grateful, and be prepared. No part of your life is going to be perfect, but it’s all good, and it’s all a gift. What you do with that gift is up to you, but I encourage you to take care of it.

That’s all for now. Know of my prayers for you and your families, and please keep me and this ministry in your prayers.

Peace of Christ,

Miss Jessica

A.M.D.G.