Christmas is a time where many gifts are given and received. We should consider how giving solid resources to teenagers during this time can potentially change the trajectory of their lives. Now, I realize there might not be huge excitement when a kid opens a present and finds a book. However, it’s worth the risk in order to get helpful resources into the hands of today’s high school students. Below are four recommended books to give to high school students this Christmas:

A Student’s Guide to Anxiety by Ed Welch - Most parents would agree that their teenage child likely struggles with some level of anxiety or will in the near future! This concise book can act as a conversation starter about how to trust God in the midst of life as a high school student.

Before You Open Your Bible by Matt Smethurst & How to Read the Bible Better by Richard Chin - The Bible can be seen as a daunting book to read for people of all ages. However, we need to remember that we must not wait until after high school for students to begin to read, study, and memorize the Bible. These two resources can be helpful for students now and in the future.

Who is Jesus? by Greg Gilbert - The title of this book is ultimately the most important question every person needs to answer. Buy two copies, one for yourself and one for your teenager. The conversations had around this book can be helpful for students to think through what they actually believe about Jesus.