Dating:

Wait to date until you are old enough to consider a young man as a potential lifelong partner. Numerous relationships and breakups during the teen years are detrimental to your life and witness and can have serious repercussions for your future marriage relationship.

“In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the master and prepared to do any good work.” 2 Timothy 2:20-21 (NIV)

Academics:

Who you are as a person is far more important than academic success. Although you should always do your very best–putting forth substantial and consistent effort in your studies–you are more than your grades. Therefore, focus on being salt and light in the world, treating others with love and respect, and using your giftedness to serve Him.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…” Colossians 3:23 (NIV)

Friendship:

Be kind to everyone, do not exclude anyone, and do not join in on negative gossip or disparaging remarks towards others. Be a friend to all…even those who may be very different from you. Your very closest friends should be fellow believers who can encourage you in your walk with the Lord and hold you accountable.

“Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17 (NIV)

Self-Image:

Never compare yourself to others. God created you with a unique look, personality, and set of skills meant to help you fulfill a specific purpose in this world that only you can fill. You are perfect in his sight just the way you are. Because of that, your confidence and self-esteem can come from who you are in him, not from achievement, popularity, or beauty.

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know them full well.” Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

Service:

Make time to do something for someone who cannot do for themselves. Serving others is a big part of why we were put on this earth. They will know we are Christians by our love. Ministering to others in the name of Jesus whether in our local community or around the world must be a component of any life that is pleasing to Him.

“Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38 (NIV)

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)