Vertical Thought

Vertical Thought was published from 2003 to 2013 by the United Church of God. It was created to give relevant content to help young people ages 12-22 discover and live God's way of life. 

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Is the Bible Study Course for Young People?

Many people don't realize that the United Church of God's free Bible Study Course was designed with young people in mind. Here is the story behind its development.
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Christianity Isn't for Wimps

Most people today think being a Christian is easy, but the surprising truth is, the real Christianity of the Bible is challenging and difficult. Do you have the courage and conviction to be a real Christian?
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Too Young to Lead?

Being a leader can seem tough and demanding. How old do you have to be before you can lead?
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Leadership... Is It for You?

You, the next generation, can accept the challenge to prepare yourselves for your ultimate role in leadership.
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Courage in an Age of Apathy

When asked to do something challenging, many respond, "Who, me?" It's as if they don't want to have their peaceful lives disturbed with anything difficult. How about you? Are you willing to be a courageous leader?
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One, But Not the Same

Dating someone with different religious values and beliefs and can seem like a good thing until you consider what is most important in a relationship. Read this true story by someone who learned this lesson firsthand.
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Predicting Your Success

How would you like to drastically improve your odds of living a long, financially successful life? It is really quite simple. Read this article to find out how to do so and achieve greater happiness.
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Treating People (Including the Opposite Sex) With Respect

Since no one is exactly alike, how can we get along with others? How can we deal with the differences between us?
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Who Would You Follow?

Everyone chooses role models. Sometimes we emulate people who are older than us. At other times, it is people our own age or even younger than us. How can we decide whom to follow?
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Pornography: "Adult" Entertainment Is Definitely Not for Adults or Youth

Recent decades have seen an explosion in pornography. It's big business, grossing $10 billion in the United States alone. But that's only a tiny part of the story.
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You Want to Pierce Your What?

Body piercing has become quite fashionable today. But is this practice wise and, more importantly, what does God think about it?
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Looking Good

Just how important is it that you look good?
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Don't Leave Home Without It

Learning about finances is important business for young people. Do you know how to get the most out of your money?
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A Forgotten Treasure

Many young people don't realize the value of talking with older people. Consider what this man discovered. Perhaps you can recognize this treasure before you grow old.
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Living With One Parent

Single-parent households have increased dramatically in recent years. While God's intent was for young people to live with both parents, due to various factors, many don't have this luxury. What can young people do if they live with only one...
How to Raise YOUR Parents!
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How to Raise YOUR Parents!

Have you considered how you as a teen could positively influence your relationship with your parents (or parent)? Read this article for some great tips on how to accomplish this important feat.
How Can You Get Along With Brothers and Sisters?
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How Can You Get Along With Brothers and Sisters?

Sometimes sibling rivalries can make you wonder if "brotherly love" is an oxymoron—a contradiction of terms. But here are some tips that can help promote peace.
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When Parents and Friends Clash

"'Honor your father and mother,' which is the first commandment with promise." — Ephesians 6:2
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When Cramming Helps and When It Doesn't

Frantically filling your head with facts just before a test can sometimes help, but you have to know when it won't be effective.
Teens and Alcohol
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Teens and Alcohol

Teens are consuming larger amounts of alcohol than in the past, and it is often done illegally. Is this just a harmless way to fit in with the crowd?