Apply Jesus' Teachings in Junior High Life
- Disrupt the Drama Group
- Oct 9
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 9
In the journey through junior high, students face numerous social dynamics and challenges. Embracing the teachings of Jesus, especially from His parables and the Sermon on the Mount, can provide a strong foundation for navigating these years. Here are some ways to apply these teachings:
Seeking the One, Not the Group
Instead of focusing on popularity or fitting in with a group, strive to build meaningful relationships with individuals. Jesus often emphasized the importance of each person, as seen in the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:3-7). This can manifest in:
Reaching out to classmates who may feel left out.
Being a friend to someone who is different from you.
Encouraging others to be themselves, regardless of social status.
Praying for One Another
Start each day with a prayer for your classmates and teachers. This practice fosters a supportive environment and reflects the love Jesus taught us. Consider:
Creating a prayer group where students can share their concerns.
Taking a moment before class to silently pray for those around you.
Encouraging others to pray for each other’s challenges and successes.
Love and Respect for Others
Romans 12:9-21 emphasizes genuine love and respect. To embody this in junior high:
Practice kindness in your interactions, even with those who may not be kind in return.
Stand up against bullying and support those who are targeted.
Show appreciation for your teachers and peers through small acts of kindness.
Hospitality and Patience
Being welcoming and patient is essential in building a positive community. You can demonstrate this by:
Inviting new students to join your group or activities.
Being patient with classmates who may struggle academically or socially.
Creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued.
Avoiding Cursing, Persecution, and Revenge
In moments of conflict or frustration, remember the teachings of Jesus regarding forgiveness and peace. To apply this:
Choose your words carefully, opting for encouragement instead of insults.
Resolve conflicts through dialogue rather than retaliation.
Encourage classmates to forgive and move forward rather than hold grudges.
Living the Beatitudes
The Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount provide a guide for character and behavior. You can embody these teachings by:
Being meek and humble, recognizing that everyone has strengths and weaknesses.
Showing mercy to those who make mistakes, understanding that we all need grace.
Seeking peace in conflicts, striving to be a peacemaker among your peers.
Understanding Jesus' Teachings
Jesus' teachings focus on love, kindness, forgiveness, and humility. These principles are not just for adults; they are incredibly relevant for young people too. By embracing these values, you can create a positive environment for yourself and those around you.
Love One Another
One of the core messages of Jesus is to love one another. This means showing compassion and understanding to your friends, classmates, and even those who may not be kind to you.
Practice Empathy: Try to understand what others are going through. If a classmate is having a tough day, offer a listening ear or a kind word.
Be Inclusive: Invite others to join your group during lunch or activities. This simple act can make someone feel valued and accepted.
The Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is another important teaching of Jesus. Holding onto grudges can weigh you down and affect your happiness.
Let Go of Anger: If a friend hurts you, try to talk it out. Holding onto anger only makes things worse.
Apologize When Necessary: If you make a mistake, own up to it. A sincere apology can mend relationships and show maturity.
Humility in Action
Humility is about recognizing that everyone has strengths and weaknesses.
Celebrate Others' Successes: Instead of feeling jealous when a friend does well, celebrate their achievements. This builds a supportive community.
Ask for Help: If you are struggling with schoolwork or personal issues, don’t hesitate to ask for help. It shows strength to seek assistance.
Building Strong Friendships
Friendships are a significant part of junior high life. Applying Jesus' teachings can help you build strong, lasting relationships.
Be a Good Listener
Listening is a vital part of any friendship.
Give Your Full Attention: When a friend is talking, put away distractions. Show them that you care about what they have to say.
Respond with Kindness: Offer supportive words or advice when needed. This shows that you value their feelings.
Stand Up for Others
Sometimes, friends may face bullying or exclusion.
Be an Ally: If you see someone being treated unfairly, speak up. Standing up for others is a powerful way to show love and support.
Encourage Kindness: Promote a culture of kindness in your school. Small acts, like complimenting someone or helping them with homework, can make a big difference.
Navigating School Challenges
School can be stressful, but Jesus' teachings can help you manage challenges effectively.
Approach with Positivity
A positive attitude can change your perspective on difficult situations.
Focus on Solutions: Instead of complaining about a tough assignment, think about how you can tackle it. Break it down into smaller tasks.
Stay Grateful: Keep a gratitude journal. Write down things you are thankful for each day. This practice can shift your mindset.
Balance Your Time
Managing your time well is crucial in junior high.
Prioritize Tasks: Make a list of what needs to be done. Tackle the most important tasks first.
Make Time for Fun: Don’t forget to enjoy your hobbies and spend time with friends. Balance is key to a happy life.
Embracing Personal Growth
Junior high is a time for self-discovery. Applying Jesus' teachings can guide you on this journey.
Set Goals
Setting goals helps you focus on what you want to achieve.
Short-Term Goals: These can be daily or weekly goals, like completing homework on time or trying out for a sports team.
Long-Term Goals: Think about what you want to accomplish by the end of the school year. This could be improving your grades or making new friends.
Reflect on Your Actions
Self-reflection is essential for growth.
Ask Yourself Questions: At the end of each day, think about what went well and what you could improve.
Seek Feedback: Talk to trusted friends or family about your behavior. They can provide valuable insights.
Finding Your Purpose
Understanding your purpose can give you direction in life.
Explore Your Interests
Discover what you are passionate about.
Join Clubs or Activities: Participate in school clubs or sports that interest you. This can help you meet like-minded people.
Volunteer: Helping others can provide a sense of fulfillment. Look for opportunities to volunteer in your community.
Stay True to Your Values
As you grow, it is essential to stay true to your beliefs.
Make Decisions Based on Your Values: When faced with tough choices, think about what aligns with your values.
Be a Role Model: Your actions can inspire others. Strive to be a positive influence in your school.
Conclusion: A Journey of Faith and Growth
By applying these teachings from Jesus in your junior high life, you can create a positive impact not only on yourself but also on those around you. Emphasizing love, respect, and community will help foster an environment where everyone can thrive.
Junior high can be a challenging time for many students. It is a period filled with changes, new experiences, and sometimes, tough decisions. As you navigate through friendships, schoolwork, and personal growth, applying Jesus' teachings can provide guidance and support. This blog post will explore how you can incorporate these timeless lessons into your daily life, making your junior high experience more meaningful and fulfilling.
By embracing love, forgiveness, and humility, you can build strong friendships, navigate school challenges, and discover your purpose. Remember, this journey is not just about personal growth; it is also about uplifting those around you. As you move forward, let these teachings guide you, and watch how they can positively impact your life and the lives of others.
