Teenagers question. They’re scientists with theology, wondering, experimenting, testing who they are and the place that God has in their lives.

I did.

When I was 18, I spent the first night in my college dorm friendless and overwhelmed by an unsure future. I prayed myself to sleep, asking God to direct my steps toward His plan for my life.

My husband did.

At 19, he walked away from the music and friends that were destroying him and kept his Bible in his pocket, reading it every chance he got.

Today, my teens are in the same laboratory, wondering Who and where God is, experimenting with His perspective, questioning who He wants them to be.

At some point, we all use the Scientific Method on faith, making guesses about God and testing them. Even the devout Amish, who have a reputation for dutiful lives, allow their teens the space to experiment with faith.

We can’t force trusting God on others. Building faith is God’s work. It’s His doing that opens eyes to see Him. It’s circumstances He allows that drive people to seek Him.

Meanwhile, we peer through the laboratory window at our loved ones. We encourage, pray, and hope. Our own faith grows as we trust that all their “science” will lead them to Jesus.