Short Bible Messages For Youth: Make an Impact on Teens

Short Bible messages for youth impact lives for a long time. Words matter…often more than we realize. Words can wound, maybe even kill. But they can also affirm and build up. The words we use make a difference.

Check out these Bible-based messages that teenagers need to hear from you.

Short Bible Messages for Youth: What Teens Need to Hear

1. God loves you, no matter what.

This is the most important truth of all. We should repeat it every time we talk to teens. No matter what you’ve done, no matter what you’ll do, God will always love you. He loves you even if you’re the biggest sinner who ever walked the face of the earth.

God loves you when you’re depressed and cutting yourself. He loves you when you’re having sex with your boyfriend or girlfriend. God loves you when you’re angry all the time. He loves you whether you’re gay, straight, or confused. Nothing you could ever do would make God stop loving you. Let’s tell teens that and affirm them in God’s love for them again and again.

2. I love you.

That may sound cheesy… But many teens are longing to hear someone say that to them. Show kids you love them by spending time with them and investing in a relationship. But remember to say the words as well. Hey man, I love you, you’re like a little brother to me, you know that? I love you girl, I’m so blessed to know you and to have you in my life. Say the words and watch them make a difference.

3. I forgive you.

Teens mess up. At one point, they’ll make a mistake, cost you money, or end up hurting you. How you react can have a huge impact. The words teens need to hear are: I forgive you (possibly followed by: And I still love you!). Teens need to know they have room for mistakes. Messing up every now and then is okay.

4. No.

In Generation iY, Tim Elmore paints a startling picture of the current generation of teens. For starters,  this generation is spoiled. Their parents are usually overprotective and hovering. Yet parents are afraid to set clear boundaries, deny requests, and simply say no.

Teens need boundaries. They need rules, and they need to hear you say no. As a youth leader, remember you’re not a buddy or BFF. You’re their leader. Kids follow you, not the other way around. That means setting boundaries and lovingly saying no when teens cross them. You may feel like you’re hurting them by saying no. But in the end, it’ll be better for them…and for you.