25 Principles of Greatness in Life for Teenagers (Jesus' Standard)

Dear Reader,

As teenagers, you are at a pivotal point in your life, a time of growth and self-discovery. These 25 principles are inspired by the teachings of Jesus, meant to guide you towards a life of greatness. Each principle is presented with a story to make it relatable and easy to understand.

Principle 1: Love God

Matthew was a typical teenager struggling with the pressures of school and social life. One day, he read about the greatest commandment: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart." This principle became his anchor. Whenever he felt overwhelmed, he took a moment to pray and reconnect with God, finding peace and strength in His presence.

Principle 2: Love Your Neighbor

Emily always saw a lonely girl, Sarah, sitting by herself during lunch. Remembering the principle of loving your neighbor, she decided to invite Sarah to join her table. This simple act of kindness blossomed into a beautiful friendship, teaching Emily the power of love in action.

Principle 3: Have Faith

Joshua dreamed of making the school basketball team, but he wasn’t very tall. He remembered Jesus saying, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible for you.” Joshua practiced diligently, trusting in his abilities and God’s plan. His faith paid off when he made the team, inspiring others to believe in themselves.

Principle 4: Forgive Others

Sophie was hurt when her best friend betrayed her trust. She struggled with anger until she recalled Jesus' teaching to forgive seventy times seven times. Sophie chose to forgive her friend, releasing her bitterness and restoring their friendship, learning that forgiveness heals the heart.

Principle 5: Serve Others

Ben volunteered at a local soup kitchen, initially for community service hours. Over time, he saw the joy his service brought to others and realized Jesus' call to serve. Ben found a deeper purpose, knowing his actions made a difference in people’s lives.

Principle 6: Be Humble

Anna excelled in academics and often boasted about her achievements. Her attitude changed when she read about Jesus washing His disciples' feet. Anna learned that true greatness comes from humility, leading her to help her classmates and share her knowledge selflessly.

Principle 7: Be Patient

Michael was impatient to see results in his art projects. He remembered the story of Jesus patiently teaching His disciples. Michael learned that patience is essential for growth and improvement, and he began to see progress as he waited and worked diligently.

Principle 8: Show Kindness

Lucy decided to make her school a kinder place. Inspired by Jesus' kindness, she started a kindness club, encouraging acts of generosity and compassion. The club transformed the school environment, proving that kindness can change the world.

Principle 9: Be Honest

David often told small lies to get out of trouble. One day, he read Jesus saying, "The truth will set you free." He decided to be honest, even when it was difficult. David found that honesty built trust and strengthened his relationships.

Principle 10: Be Grateful

Emma felt unhappy despite having many blessings. She started a gratitude journal, inspired by Jesus' gratitude to God. Writing down her blessings daily shifted her perspective, making her more joyful and content.

Principle 11: Persevere

Tom faced many failures in his attempt to learn the guitar. Remembering how Jesus persevered through challenges, Tom kept practicing. His perseverance paid off when he played beautifully at the school concert, showing that persistence leads to success.

Principle 12: Be Generous

Samantha saved her allowance for months to buy a new phone. When she learned about a family in need, she felt compelled to help. Inspired by Jesus' generosity, she donated her savings. Samantha discovered the joy of giving and how it enriched her life.

Principle 13: Respect Others

Jack often clashed with his parents. He learned from Jesus' respect for others, regardless of their status or beliefs. Jack started to listen and understand his parents' perspectives, improving their relationship significantly.

Principle 14: Be Compassionate

Olivia saw a classmate being bullied and felt moved to help. Inspired by Jesus' compassion for the suffering, she stood up for her classmate and supported him. Her actions taught her the power of compassion in making a difference.

Principle 15: Maintain Integrity

Henry faced a tough choice between cheating on a test or risking a bad grade. He remembered Jesus’ unwavering integrity. Henry chose honesty, and though he didn't get a perfect score, he earned respect from his teacher and peers.

Principle 16: Choose Joy

Natalie often felt down, focusing on what she lacked. Inspired by Jesus' joy despite hardships, she decided to focus on the positive. By choosing joy, Natalie found happiness in everyday moments and improved her overall well-being.

Principle 17: Practice Self-Control

Chris struggled with his temper. Remembering Jesus’ calmness even when provoked, Chris started practicing self-control. He learned techniques to manage his anger, improving his relationships and personal peace.

Principle 18: Seek Wisdom

Isabella often acted impulsively. She began to seek wisdom, inspired by Jesus' thoughtful actions and teachings. She started making better decisions, leading to a more fulfilling life.

Principle 19: Hold onto Hope

Ryan felt hopeless after his parents' divorce. Remembering Jesus’ promise of hope, he clung to faith and found support in his friends and church. This hope carried him through tough times, showing him light at the end of the tunnel.

Principle 20: Be Courageous

Lily feared public speaking. Inspired by Jesus’ courage, she decided to face her fear. She joined the debate team, and over time, her confidence grew. Her courage opened new opportunities and self-discovery.

Principle 21: Seek Peace

Alex often got into fights at school. Learning about Jesus' message of peace, he started resolving conflicts calmly. His peaceful approach improved his reputation and created a more harmonious environment around him.

Principle 22: Be Faithful

Mia struggled with keeping promises. Inspired by Jesus’ faithfulness, she started being reliable. Her friends and family began to trust her more, strengthening her relationships.

Principle 23: Be Diligent

James procrastinated on his assignments. Learning from Jesus' diligence in His work, James started managing his time better. His improved diligence led to better grades and a sense of accomplishment.

Principle 24: Keep Your Heart Pure

Rachel faced peer pressure to engage in harmful activities. Remembering Jesus’ call to purity, she made choices that protected her well-being. Rachel found peace and joy in living a pure life, staying true to her values.

Principle 25: Show Compassion to All Creatures

Ethan loved animals but saw others mistreating them. Inspired by Jesus’ compassion for all creation, Ethan started an animal care club, promoting kindness towards animals. His actions spread awareness and improved the treatment of animals in his community.

Conclusion

Dear Reader,

These 25 principles are a compass for your journey through life. By following Jesus’ standards, you can achieve greatness and make a positive impact on the world. Remember, greatness is not about fame or wealth, but about living a life of love, faith, and service.

May these stories inspire you to embody thes

e principles and lead a life of true greatness.

With blessings and hope for your future,

Ajayi Taiye Jeremiah