Gospel-Based Conversations to Have With Your Preteenಮಾದರಿ

Day 1: Your Identity

What have you noticed as you’ve seen your child grow into a preteen? Is your preteen’s desire for acceptance running rampant? Do they strive for independence for what feels like the first time? Are you seeing them fall in love with things like sports, art, or academics?

Those preteen years are full of soul-searching moments, which can often leave you thinking, “Am I leading my child in the right direction?”

Thankfully, the Bible gives some direction on identity and how (and where) to root it deeply and securely. These gospel-based conversations won’t have all the answers, but they will provide biblical wisdom on what we should remind ourselves and our preteens about.

Ephesians 1:4-5 talks about being “chosen” by God, and “adopted” as sons (and daughters) through Jesus Christ. What does being chosen feel like? I think of gym class or a sports team, where the captains choose players individually. Once chosen, a sense of belonging and relief often follows.

In a similar yet deeply personal way, being chosen by God, through faith in Jesus, gives a secure sense of belonging that can never be taken away. Though you may know this, your preteen is at a time in their life where influences around them and things they’re exposed to may try to pull their attention in a different direction.

Go deeper into questions daily, which will spark further reflection for your preteen. If other areas in the Bible would be helpful to share with them, feel free to share them. Most importantly, listen well!

Go Deeper With Your Preteen: Who does God say that you are? Do you genuinely believe your identity is in Him, or are there days when it’s easy to forget your secure identity?