How to deal with teens who start questioning their faith

Don't ignore the questions your teen may start asking about religion.

"Why does God allow so much misery and injustice in the world? Why did He make us? And how could He send people to hell forever?" These questions bug most young people, just starting to independently learn about their faith. As cited in the article by Crosswalk.com, these inquiries are not malicious, they are depicting the young minds' conscious and curious participation on their belief.

MUNTINLUPA, PHILIPPINES (Catholic Online) - "Most of the doubts only came out after years of repression, after the young person had achieved some measure of independence," said Jon H., who serves in upstate South Carolina.

To ignore their questions, giving out statements like, "Sometimes you just have to believe without understanding," will not resolve the issue, rather it may cause more harm.

"Tip-toeing around the issues and the arguments that unsaved people bring up doesn't help our teens. They need answers," said Elissa M., who is married to a youth leader. "This over-sheltering," she said, "is a negative response to their curiosity."

Sharing the same perspective, Jill and Brad W., of a youth group in Oregon, explained that parents and adult leaders should encourage teens to question what they believe and lead them to an understanding of what was stated in the Bible to suffice their burning inquiry.

This may seem challenging, however, it is better to guide the young instead of repressing them. Yet, there are many who chose to separate from "doubters," fearing they could affect those already bearing strong faith.

"We need believing teens who aren't ashamed of their beliefs to be examples to non-believers," argued Jill and Brad W., frustrated by the fact that parents pull their children out after learning there are some who ask questions. The religious teens with strong faith can actually help the unchurched learn the answers to their questions as they easily understand each other, coming from the same generation, said Elissa M.

What they are suggesting is that give an answer and pray for them.

"In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you-yet do it with gentleness and respect." 1 Peter 3:15 (ESV)

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