1. Learn to be spiritual. Seek first God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:33). Desire to do God’s will more than anything. Be involved in winning others, serving God, and walking faithfully.
2. Learn to develop godly character. This is subconsciously doing right, or, as someone put it, “right by reflex.” This includes the ability to say no to sin, get up on time, be on time, etc. Character is who you are when no one is around.
3. Learn to be loyal. Start with God and authorities. Be loyal to your church and pastor. Learn to take a stand and to speak in defense of those who love you. Don’t put up with gossip and bad attitudes.
4. Learn to treat your family well. If you treat your parents and siblings right, you will one day treat your spouse and children right.
5. Learn stability. Learn how to be content and to wait on God. Don’t be constantly reconsidering good decisions, looking for the next fun thing, or changing your mind about what you believe. Learn to establish your heart in God—don’t have a “plan B.” Be constant and consistent—in your attitude, your service, your respect, and your treatment of others. Learn to not quit when things get tough!
6. Learn to develop convictions. Do you know what you believe and why? It’s time to establish your own convictions and personal standards (with the help of godly authorities). Learn to stand on what is right and not to waver. Have convictions as strong as those of the guy or girl to whom you may be attracted!
7. Learn to look sharp. Have a clean and appropriate appearance. Learn to dress right for various occasions. Guys—keep a short haircut, dress sharp, and avoid worldly styles. Cut your nails, wash your hands, polish your shoes, iron your shirts. Girls—be modest, feminine, and godly in your appearance.
8. Learn to set and pursue goals. Set your direction in life. Decide what you would like to learn, read, do, and experience to become the right person. Set goals for sharing the Gospel with people, serving God faithfully, giving, and helping others—and then pursue those goals until they are fulfilled. Then set new goals! Proverbs 29:18, “Where there is no vision, the people perish….” Today’s average high school senior upon graduation has no idea what to be or do. This is is usually due to a poor walk with God. I'm not saying you have to know exactly what you are going to be or do; but start taking inventory of how the Holy Spirit has gifted you and check your desires to see if they line up with Scripture. Then be in ceaseless prayer and counsel from godly, Biblical authorities as you seriously consider the direction the Lord may be leading you.
9. Learn to be unselfish and submissive. Begin to live for others. Give other people their way in areas where it will not compromise Truth, just because you want to be nice. Think of others before yourself. This is what it takes to have a strong family someday.
10. Learn to be respectful and attentive. Build great listening skills in church, in school, or when another person is speaking.
