Raising teens can be a joy—and a challenge. As they grow more independent, it’s natural to wonder: Are we doing enough? Will they hold on to their faith? How can we guide without controlling, and influence without pushing them away?
We recently spoke with a handful of young adults who were willing to reflect on their upbringing and share the ways their parents helped shape their walk with Christ. Their answers may surprise you—and encourage you.
"They Lived What They Believed"
“My parents didn’t just talk about Jesus—they actually lived like Him,” said Sarah, age 22. “They didn’t hide their struggles either. They showed me how to pray when life got hard, and that stuck with me.”
Teens are perceptive. They’re looking for authenticity more than perfection. Parents who model consistency in their faith—through how they treat others, handle hardship, or prioritize time with God—leave a lasting mark.
Looking for ideas to build your own spiritual habits as a family? Check out our article on our top 5 devotional apps.
"They Prayed With Me and For Me"
“I remember hearing my mom pray for me out loud,” shared Caleb, 19. “Even when I didn’t care about God, she never stopped praying over me.”
Prayer leaves a powerful imprint. Whether you’re praying with your teen before a test or over them while they sleep, it reinforces your role as their spiritual protector. And if you're looking for more creative ways to engage your family spiritually, don't miss Coloring with Grandma Peggy—a wonderful tool for younger siblings or bonding moments across generations.
"They Gave Me Space to Make My Faith My Own"
One of the most surprising pieces of feedback? Teens value parents who give them room to wrestle with faith, ask questions, and come to their own conclusions.
“My dad let me doubt,” said Hannah, 20. “He didn’t try to control my beliefs but always pointed me back to truth and encouraged me to keep seeking.”
Faith that lasts is faith that’s tested. Giving your teen the freedom to ask tough questions—while continuing to offer support and truth—is one of the best ways to help them grow spiritually.
"They Put Us in a Community of Believers"
“My parents made sure we were surrounded by people who loved God,” said Isaiah, 21. “It wasn’t just church on Sunday—it was dinner with godly families, serving together, and doing life with people who pointed us to Jesus.”
Faith thrives in community. That’s something we believe strongly at OneShare Health, too. Whether it’s our Prayer Request line or the ways Members lift one another up through health care sharing, we’re Better Together—just like the Church.
Small Seeds, Big Harvest
Every spiritual seed you plant matters. Whether it's reading Scripture together, creating space for faith conversations, or simply living out your values day by day, your influence is greater than you think. As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
For more inspiration on living out your faith with your family, check out our post on Jesus Calling: Life-Changing Books for the Faithful.
Want to Support Your Family’s Health—Physically and Spiritually?
OneShare Health is more than just a Health Care Sharing Ministry. We’re a nationwide community of Believers who come together to share each other’s burdens—financial, emotional, and spiritual. Whether your family is facing medical needs, growing in faith, or both, our Programs are designed to walk with you every step of the way.
