Pursuing a Heart of Wisdom: Counseling Teenagers Biblically

A healthy body. A strong mind. A good academic record. Success in every extra–curricular activity. A bright future. Out of all the qualities and successes adults desire to see in the lives of teens, a wise and understanding heart should at the top of the list. Grounded in the fear of the Lord, godly wisdom is essential to navigate the minefield of the teenage years. Far too often, it is assumed by many that adolescents are destined to be foolish—hopefully, outgrowing such foolishness by adulthood.

Sadly, many teens are left to themselves during these years, dealing with the temptations and the struggles of their hearts and minds all on their own. Yet, all through the Book of Proverbs, young people are taught to gain wisdom through listening to and obeying their parents and other wise adults. If teenagers are to listen and learn wisdom, then parents and other mature adults are to speak wisdom and live wisely before them! To put it in today’s terms, all teens need Biblical counseling in order to pursue a heart of wisdom—and God calls parents and youth ministry leaders to offer them Biblical counsel

336 pages

It is not often I get the privilege to read a book deeply committed to a thoughtful, biblical approach to counseling teens. It is for the parent, the youth worker, the caring adult who wants to think well and wisely about the culture of our young people. If you want to understand the struggles teens are facing, the importance of a strong theological perspective and godly influences in their lives, read this book.

--- Julie Lowe, Counselor and Play Therapist, Faculty Member at CCEF

There are few people who are as qualified as John Kwasny to write this kind of guide for those who counsel and disciple teenagers. John writes as someone who knows teenagers well, having raised teens himself and also counseling them over his many years in the church. Whether you need an overall orientation to counseling teens or need help dealing with the details of particular issues, this book offers quality biblical wisdom that you will not find anywhere else. I am especially thankful for how practical this guide is, being rich with case studies, questions to ask, and “pointers” for counselors. Most of all, I am thankful that he is tackling very difficult, complex issues in a way that never compromises the gospel of Jesus Christ.

--- Chase Maxey, Executive Director and Counselor, Biblical Counseling & Training Ministries