What the Bible Says About Godly Behavior

God expects Christian teens to live by a higher standard

Two teenage girls praying together

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Christian teens hear a lot about "Godly behavior," but often wonder what that actually means. As Christians, we are asked to live to a higher standard, because we are representatives of God on Earth. So striving to live a God-centered life is important, because when we exhibit Godly behavior we are providing a good witness to those around us.

Godly Expectations

God expects Christian teens to live by a higher standard. This means that God wants us to be examples of Christ rather than living by the world's standards. Reading your Bible is a good start to discovering what God wants for us. He also wants us to grow in our relationship with Him, and praying is a way to speak to God and listen to what He has to tell us. Finally, doing regular devotions are helpful ways to know God's expectations and live a life focused on God.

Romans 13:13 - "Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives for all to see. Don’t participate in the darkness of wild parties and drunkenness, or in sexual promiscuity and immoral living, or in quarreling and jealousy." (NLT)

Ephesians 5:8 - "For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!" (NLT)

Your Age Is Not an Excuse for Bad Behavior

One of the greatest witnesses to non-believers is the Christian teen setting a Godly example. Unfortunately, most people have little faith that teens can make good decisions, so when a teenager is exemplifying godly behavior, it becomes an even more powerful representation of God's love. However, that's not to say teens don't make mistakes, but we should strive to be better examples of God.

Romans 12: 2 - "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." (NIV)

Living out Godly Behavior in Your Everyday Life

Taking time to ask how your behavior and appearance are perceived by others is an important part of being a Christian. Everything a Christian teen does influences what people think of Christians and God. You are a representative of God, and your behavior is part of demonstrating your relationship with Him. Too many badly behaved Christians have given non-Christians reason to think believers are hypocrites. Still, does this mean you will be perfect? No. We all make mistakes and sin. However, it is important to keep striving to walk in Jesus' footsteps as best we can. And when we do something wrong? We need to take responsibility and show the world how God is the best and most reliable forgiver.

Matthew 5:16 - "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." (NIV)

1 Peter 2:12 - "Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us." (NIV)

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Mahoney, Kelli. "What the Bible Says About Godly Behavior." Learn Religions, Feb. 16, 2021, learnreligions.com/the-bible-godly-behavior-712774. Mahoney, Kelli. (2021, February 16). What the Bible Says About Godly Behavior. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/the-bible-godly-behavior-712774 Mahoney, Kelli. "What the Bible Says About Godly Behavior." Learn Religions. https://www.learnreligions.com/the-bible-godly-behavior-712774 (accessed March 29, 2024).