Have you seen the popular MTV programs “Teen Mom” and “16 and Pregnant”? I’ve never watched a full episode myself, but I’ve managed to catch a random segment or two to keep a pulse on the culture and the messages being sent to our kids.
If you’re not familiar with these shows, they’re so-called “reality” TV programs that follow the lives of young girls between the ages of 13 and 16 who are pregnant, having babies, and involved in intimate relationships.
You have to dig deep to find redeeming value to such “entertainment,” but one positive would be that they do highlight the harsh realities of teen pregnancy and parenthood. Not surprisingly, though – as major cable network productions are prone to do – they glamorize much of it as well.
I’m certainly not encouraging you to tune in for the next episode. In fact, I wouldn’t bring up these shows at all except that they shine a spotlight on a problem many of us parents would rather not think or talk about.
Teen pregnancy.
Whether we like it or not, the culture forces our children to grow up fast, and there’s no way to shield them from every negative influence, no matter how hard we may try. Many loving Christian parents who are intimately engaged in their children’s lives and “do everything right” in their parenting still find themselves reeling when their children inexplicably turn away from all they’ve been taught.
Some of you may have a daughter who is in such a predicament right now. It’s like the floor has dropped out from beneath you, and you’re struggling to make sense of it all. How do you get your own wits about you enough to come alongside her with compassion and grace, help her get a firm footing on a path of healing, and not complicate one bad choice with a string of others?
On our program today, we’ll be talking to author Tricia Goyer and her husband, John. It’s an important broadcast for moms and dads. Tricia’s story reflects the emotional black hole many young girls feel stuck in and the choices they often feel compelled to make to get out.
By the time Tricia graduated from high school, she had ended one pregnancy through abortion and carried another to term, giving birth to a baby boy. It was one of the toughest seasons of her life. Fortunately, God saw her through, used her circumstances to lead her to Christ, and eventually brought a godly husband into her life.
Her story is one of hope – which may be something you’re in dire need of right now if this is a situation you’re dealing with in your home. Teen pregnancy can cause a lot of shame and guilt, and many families hide in the shadows from embarrassment.
That’s how Tricia felt for years, but through God’s grace she has found the strength to share her story. I appreciate her willingness to put herself out there, and I believe you’ll connect with her journey.
We’d like to help you find the same encouragement through today’s program. Whether your kids are in public school, Christian school, or even home schooled, they’re likely exposed to people who are sexually active. Even if they’re not, the culture surrounding them will make sure they hear all about it. That’s why we want to talk about it ourselves and offer some help to parents and young teens alike who are facing a difficult time.
Our conversation will be open and honest, which I believe is important, but it’s filled with a lot of heart as well. Join us on your local radio station. Or tune in anytime online or via our free, downloadable mobile phone app
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