I Mustache Mark a Question: Ministry, Motive and Mission

How to Navigate Teen Spiritual Doubt: relationship-based strategies for parents

This episode tackles a common parenting dilemma: what to do when teens question faith, withdraw from church, or seem despondent. Mark Gregsten explains why traditional approaches often miss deep-thinking or traumatized teens, and offers alternative ways to connect that emphasize relationship-based ministry, practical actions, and crisis support.

Why teens move from concrete to abstract thinking — and why it matters

As adolescents shift from concrete to abstract thought, simple answers and rote scripture can feel hollow. Teens begin to ask deeper questions about faith, suffering, and identity. This transition can look like doubt, but Gregsten reframes it as a healthy stage of spiritual development that parents can use as an opportunity for dialogue rather than conflict.

Practical parenting tips for faith conversations with teens

Listen more, shame less: replace shaming remarks with open questions to invite honest reflection.

Move from words to actions: demonstrate character and compassion through consistent behaviors, not just sermons.

Allow cultivating and waiting: stop overcorrecting; sometimes faith needs space to mature like a seed in cared-for soil.

When to seek help: family crisis conferences and targeted support

For families in acute conflict, Heartlight's Families in Crisis Conferences in Longview, Texas provide a three-day, parent-focused intensive with licensed counselors. These retreats focus on crisis management, behavior strategies, rules and consequences, and restoring relationships. They are designed to equip parents with tools to prevent escalation and reduce the need for residential placement.

How ministry points kids to Jesus without forcing words

Gregsten emphasizes that pointing teens to Jesus can be primarily relational and behavioral. Ministry that “shows” Jesus through patience, hospitality, and nonjudgmental presence is more effective for many struggling teens than repetitive doctrine alone. The goal is to be a living example of Christ-like character that resonates with teens processing abstract ideas.

Action steps and resources

• Ask thoughtful questions and welcome doubts as conversation starters.
• Prioritize relationship-based ministry and real-life modeling of faith.
• Consider parent-only crisis conferences when patterns escalate.
• Give teens space to process, trusting the long-term cultivation of faith.

These approaches—listening, modeling, cultivating, and seeking targeted help—aim to restore hope, reduce despondency, and create spiritual growth in teens who think deeply or have experienced trauma.