Gabriel Rogers Jr.
How Christian Teens Can Overcome Temptation and Maintain Good
Mental Health
by Lauren
Christian teens are faced with many temptations. These temptations include pressures to fit in with the popular crowd at school, trying to fit the mold of what the world says is “good looking”, and to turn our Christian light off in this dark and evil world. The question that remains a challenge for most teens is, “how do we overcome temptation and maintain good mental health?”. I propose the following:
The first is to engage in biblical spiritual warfare. This may seem like a sort of “cliche” answer because at KCC, we’ve heard it a lot, but spiritual warfare against the devil and the temptations sent by him truly does work. The devil’s weapons in your life only include the things that you give to him. These weapons are targeted towards different weaknesses that different people have. For some this may include feelings that you are ugly and for others this may include jealousy towards someone whose life you perceive as better than yours. This picture of perfection for teens is most popular through social media filters.
Never let the devil convince you that what you have done and / or are going through is too shameful to be told to your YDP. You also should not put on any facades. Even if what you did was bad, it is the job of your YDP to walk you through to receiving the restoration, love, and forgiveness of God and walk you out of condemnation and that
People only post what looks good and put filters on themselves to give them the “ideal look” of the world. As Christian teens, it is very important to not get distracted by people’s facades and, for social media, this quite frankly means to stop using it. Social media is just a big facade that works in distracting people from God’s purpose and place for their life and this is especially true with teens who still have a chance to make right choices.
The second way to overcome temptations and maintain good mental health is to get help from someone who is more spiritually mature than you are. When talking about accountability, it is important to understand that you can’t just tell anybody what you are going through. Telling your friends who are just as immature as you are will not help you at all. You need to tell your YDP (“Youth Discipleship Partner”), who was assigned to you at KCC, what you are going through or what you have done. James 5:16 explains that Christians are to tell their faults to each other so they can be healed and that is the purpose of the YDP system for young people. It is also important to come clean about everything and to walk through it with someone in order to be healed and overcome whatever it is that you may be dealing with.
The third and final way to overcome temptation and maintain good mental health is to be comfortable in your own skin. When I say this, I do NOT mean to be comfortable in your own sin. Being comfortable in your own skin means to know who you are in God and to walk in that. This brings up the struggle of not feeling beautiful. Although this struggle is more of a feminine idea, young men may deal with this as well. As previously discussed, one of the reasons why teens don’t feel beautiful is because of the fake images they see on social media. We should not get our idea of beauty from the world but instead, from God’s Word. Let’s see what it says in Psalms 139:14. This scripture cancels all of the lies of the Devil by saying, “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.” Your soul should know the “that” in this verse to be well, which means that all of the devil’s lies, such as you’re too dark or light, too short or tall, too round or skinny and therefore not a masterpiece, are canceled out. Knowing that you are God’s work of art causes you to know who you are in Him.
Knowing who you are in God causes you to stop trying to fit in and get the acceptance of the popular crowd at school or in the world as a whole. Not trying to fit in frees up time that should be spent working on your God - given assignment, rather than wasting time working to fit the mold of the world and therefore not being so stressed out by having to keep up facades all of the time. Knowing and working out the points previously discussed (after a true salvation) is the start to walking in freedom and the restoration of God for your life as a Christian teen.
Youth Praise
At what age did you start playing the piano?
I started playing the piano at 10 years old.
Do you take piano lessons? If so, when did you start?
I take piano lessons and I started taking them almost 4 years ago when I was 10 years old.
Can you read music?
I can read sheet music very well and I can play by ear.
What is or will be one of your most memorable experiences playing the piano?
There is an upcoming event in which I am excited to play at.
What are your top three favorite songs to play?
“You Are Good” By Israel Houghton “My Worship” By Phil Thompson “I Speak Jesus” By Charity Gayle
What initially sparked your interest in music?
Initially, I wasn’t interested in music at all. I strongly disliked piano lessons and never did my work. However, as I got older, I began to appreciate the value of music and what it can do for me (make money, pay for college, etc..). My dad, who is also a musician, taught me that. Then, when I started to focus on what I was doing, I practiced for literally hours a day. Now, I love what I do and wouldn’t have it any other way.
Who or what was your biggest early musical influence?
My dad was and is my biggest early musical influence. Watching him play made me want to grow and be more like him.
What do you enjoy most about playing for the youth ministry?
What I enjoy most about playing for Youth Ministry is that I get to be in my own space and it is fun to play and be a part of the worship experience. I also enjoy playing alongside other youth.
Do you play any other instruments?
In addition to playing the piano, I play alto and baritone saxophone.
What is your vision for your growth in your talent as a musician?
My vision for growth in my talent is to be talented in all types of music and to be a well known musician that makes big money.
PRAYER OF SALVATION
If you do not know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, pray the following prayer in faith, and you will be saved!
Dear God, I come to You in the Name of Jesus. According to Romans 10: 9-10, Jesus I ask you to come into my heart and be Lord over my life. Your Word says that "if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God has raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." I confess that Jesus is Lord, and I believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead.
I AM SAVED!
When I look at the generations that came before mine, I realize that some parents of those generations failed the youth in many ways, leaving a vicious cycle of untreated mental health issues, sexual lasciviousness, drug use, and unresolved trauma. I feel that these problems were born from the fact that many issues that youth experienced were looked at as taboo and shameful to discuss, causing many to not get help when they needed it the most.
When I attended Help I’m a Teenager, I was so thankful to God that I don’t have to suffer like the past generations. The most impactful and enjoyable part of the Help Seminar, was when Pastor Gabe and the youth had a round chair discussion about mental health, and the consequences of our actions. At the end of the round chair discussion, we learned about carrots. Now, as weird as it may sound, it actually makes a lot of sense. Pastor Gabe explained to us that these “carrots” are what can make or break a person’s life and future depending on the decisions they make. Particularly while they are in their youth. And at the
experience at
“Help! I’m a teenager” My
By Will Richmond
end of the round chair discussion, all the youth played a game where we threw around a carrot plushie, and whoever caught the carrot plushie gave a point as to what can help make a person’s future more prosperous.
I learned many things at the Help Seminar, but it was the carrot principle that helped me the most. The carrot principle helps keep me in check before making any irresponsible decisions so I can prosper in all aspects of my life. I use the carrot principle to help me focus on my future goals and aspirations. I’ll implement Pastor Gabe’s instruction to ensure I don’t do anything to jeopardize my success, or fall short of God’s will for my life. I use the carrot principle by asking myself what type of carrot will be planted into my life if I were to make a certain decision.
Pastor Gabe, through the Help Seminar, reminded me that I am heard, I am seen, I am cared about, and most importantly I am loved. I’m loved by a family that includes God, Who is my Father, my earthly family, and my church family in the body of Christ. I am thankful for so many leaders who genuinely care about the youth here at KCC. The Help event was just one example of many that was purposed for helping us to build Godly character which will help me to follow our Pastor’s lifestyle of integrity.
“Help! I’m a teenager” My experience at
By Camara Black
Attending “Help! I’m a Teenager” was one of the most meaningful experiences I've had as a young person. Pastor talked about real issues teens face in today's culture: sex, substance use, and struggles with mental health. He reflected on how sex could cause STDs and also teenage pregnancy: making it harder to fulfill the plan that God has for us. He talked about how substances are commonly used around people our age. He also said that mental health issues are something we commonly deal with, and a lot of teens deal with anxiety. He spoke honestly with us and reminded us that God still has a purpose for us even when life gets hard or we feel lost.
One exercise that we did was writing down the things that we went through as teenagers that may cause us to feel bad. It helped us to reflect on what we are currently dealing with and reminded us that we are not alone. We also had a variety of food like tacos, wings, s'mores, hot cocoa, cookies and ice cream. Pastor shared that he includes this because he wants us to enjoy just being kids while we still can.
One thing that he said that stuck with me was how he was trying to “get us before we go off the cliff”. He meant that there is still time for us to make good choices even if we had made bad ones before. We can still come back from our mistakes and step into the plan and purpose that God has for our lives.
Towards the end of the night, Pastor left us with a powerful question: “What’s the carrot?” Meaning what is the reward or benefit from being a good Christian and doing what's right while young? For me, I said it's about achieving success, becoming a lawyer one day, and walking in the purpose God has for me. That's my carrot, and attending “Help! I’m a Teenager” truly opened my eyes even more.
Tribute Mothers Day
Kyra Rion
Dear mom,
You’ve been my rock through my darkest moments, always standing by me when I felt most lost. You’ve been a shoulder to cry on, offering comfort and understanding. You’ve listened to my concerns with patience and love, making me feel truly heard and valued. In the times I needed a friend the most, you were there, showing me the meaning of unconditional support. And when I struggled to see things from a different perspective, you provided a biblical foundation and lens that helped me find peace, strength, and guidance. I’m so grateful for the strength, love, and wisdom you’ve shared with me—it’s shaped who I am and who I strive to be as a woman of God.
Jayla Martin
My mom is one of the friendliest people you will ever meet. She can talk to anybody and always makes people feel welcome. She has been there for me no matter what, and I know I can count on her for anything. Her love and support mean everything to me. I am extremely thankful God chose her to be my mom. Happy Mother’s Day!
Landon Johnson
Mom, you love our family like no other. You pray for us, take care of us, and fight for us each and every day. You create an amazing fragrance in our home. You are my biggest cheerleader, an amazing caregiver, and a wonderful nurturer. You've taught me so much, not just through your words, but by the way you live--strong, kind, and always ready to help others. You make me feel loved every single day, whether it's with a comforting hug, a warm smile, a joke, or just being there when I need you. I am so godly pleased and grateful to be your son, and I'm blessed and honored to have you as my mom. I love you dearly!
Aaliyah Williams
My mom has always shown me deep love, guided by her faith in God and the strength He gives her. We’ve been through a lot, but her trust in Him has helped us overcome every challenge. Her guidance, rooted in prayer and wisdom, has shaped my life in powerful ways. She constantly reminds me of the importance of faith, love, and perseverance. Through her, I’ve learned that with God’s knowledge and presence, we can face anything. I love you, mom.
Ethan Withers
My mom is a great mom who is loving and kind. She does a lot of things for me like cooking, cleaning, and driving me where I need to go. My mom is caring, and she prays for me. She is fun and laughs with me all the time. My mom is awesome and I’m happy and blessed to have her. Happy Mother’s Day!
Why don’t i fit in?
Let’s be real — being a Christian doesn’t always help you fit in. At school or just hanging out, people say stuff, joke about stuff, or act a certain way, and if you’re trying to live for God, it can feel super strange. You sit there thinking, “Why does it feel like I don’t belong?” It’s not always easy. Sometimes, just choosing not to join in on certain things is enough for people to notice. And then, suddenly, you’re the “weird one.” It’s not like anyone’s trying to act better than anyone else — it’s just that when you follow Jesus, you’re going to stand out. And honestly? That’s exactly what the Bible says will happen. In John 15:19, Jesus says, “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. But you don’t belong to the world. I chose you out of the world, and that’s why it hates you.” That verse really hits. It’s like, “Okay, maybe not fitting in is part of the whole thing.” Maybe we’re not supposed to just blend in with everyone else. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t feel weird or lonely sometimes, though. I’ve had days when I wondered if I should just go with the flow. Wouldn’t that be easier? But then I remember verses like Romans 12:2: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you by changing the way you think.” That’s a reminder that we’re supposed to think differently. Live differently. Act differently. Even when it’s hard. And yes, it’s hard sometimes.
I’ve lost friends because I didn’t join in on certain stuff. I’ve felt like I was the only one trying to live right. But I’ve learned that when people stop talking to you because you’re following God, that says more about their heart than yours. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong, like you’re on the outside looking in, just know you’re not the only one. A lot of us are trying to do the right thing. And it’s tough. But God sees that. He knows what you’re giving up to follow Him. And He’s proud of you for it. Not fitting in isn’t a bad thing. In fact, it’s kind of the point. We weren’t made to fit into a world that’s going in the opposite direction of God. We were made for something better. We were made to stand out. So yeah, if you feel like you don’t belong sometimes — that’s okay. It means you’re on the right path. Keep walking it. Even if it’s hard. Even if you’re walking it mostly alone. You are not truly alone. God is with you.
By: Josiah Ferguson
How to for College While in High School Academically Prepare
High Schoolers ! Don’t wait until your sophomore, junior or senior year to start preparing for college. Preparing for college starts with you establishing and maintaining a solid academic foundation, beginning your freshman year. Listed below are some ways that you can start building this foundation.
Establish and Maintain Academic Excellence
Make it your goal to maintain good grades. Good grades lead to a strong GPA. Good grades and a strong GPA are crucial for college admissions, and scholarships !
Plan ahead
Right now, in your freshman year, is when you should start planning for college. By now you should have received a high school plan from your school, outlining coursework for the next four years; review it and use it as a guide. When possible, challenge yourself with honors and AP courses. Honors and AP courses are good on your high school transcript, these also contribute to academic excellence.
Get Involved
Extracurricular activities will enhance your college experience, but they also help you to determine personal interest; so, get involved with “safe” clubs that do not contradict your Christian values. Don’t forget about community volunteer opportunities.
Research Colleges and Majors
Again, it’s not too early to start thinking about what you want to study in college. Be prayerful and seek the Lord about which career path to pursue. Start researching potential majors, employment opportunities in that field, and salary ranges. Stay in communication with your guidance counselor who can help you with your plans, as well as direct you to scholarship opportunities.
Pray and be Spirit-led
Just as Solomon asked for wisdom and received it, don’t commit to any decisions without asking the Lord for wisdom (1 Kings 3:9). Pray and ask the Lord to help you to discern His will in every choice you make.
Contributing Author
First Lady Rogers
craft
Mother’s Day Themed DIY Photo Cube
Supplies:
½ in. wood n cub photo
G u stick or doub -sid d tap cissor nci ain ma stick r tt rs
Directions:
Take each picture an place it on the woo en cube. Trace the picture to etermine where you will nee to cut ut the pictures to t the cube
Use your mom’s favorite color to paint the top of the cube
After the paint ries, a a special messa e to your mom usin small stick on letters Glue or tape each picture onto the cube leavin the top of the cube blank
Have fun!
nbateams wordsearch
SZNETSLRZKOIISK CODSLSDRAZIWZRS NSIBLAZERSPSTSW URNLZLASTKURPSC ELBULLSNUSCLLAE NSZZAJRSRKIAZRL SRSCRPBPRRRKNAT PWWSIEKAECEESPI NUUHCLBRLZWRUTC OCNANINSCZSSUOS SABWRCPTSGSSWRH SPPKLACLIPPERSK ACDSGNIKPIETUAU SBUCKSWARRIORSL STEKCORTKRREUIS
UPCOMING EVENTS
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