I have talked recently to many parents of teenagers who are discouraged. Their teenager is having difficulty navigating this tough period in their development. To compound matters, a teenager’s natural desire for independence when coupled with poor decisions, often can turn into rebellion.

As a parent of two teenagers, let me encourage all of you to keep fighting for the heart.  

Creating a culture of unconditional love within the home to fuel the emotional & moral health of our children.

This culture of unconditional love can at times feel impossible. Your kid is rebelling against your authority; they are making poor decisions with real consequences. So how do I keep fighting for the heart?

• Realize the decision to not fight for their heart could have lifelong implications
• Most teenagers have some level of difficulty (most of us did too)
• Continue to remind your teenager how much you love them. Let them see you hurt when they are hurting themselves
• Don’t lose the relationship. Continue to parent, including discipline. Realize the desire for independence is normal. Bad decisions, however;  do come with consequences.
• Love unconditionally (they are our children) but don’t enable
• Be there when they come back to you

One of my favorite Bible passages (Luke 15:11-32) is the parable of The Prodigal Son. I encourage you to take a few minutes to read it. Let’s keep fighting for the heart.