I’m hurting so much! I know I have to deal with this and be strong, but it hurts. My heart is broken because I loved him. I don’t want to cry all the time, but I don’t know where to turn. Please help me!

Heartbroken

Dear Heartbroken:
If you were here, I’d treat you to your favorite flavor of ice cream, and then we’d take a ride in the Brio Bug. I’m sorry you’re hurting, and I’d love to remove your pain. But I have to tell you that I’m impressed with this guy! There’s nothing more exciting than a teen guy who’s living in radical obedience to Christ’s lordship. Wow.

Obviously, if the Lord has spoken to this young man, it’s not God’s will that you date right now; but you don’t know the future. God may choose to bring you back together some day. I know this: God wants to help you become obedient and sold-out to Him.

So while you’re hurting, turn to your heavenly Father. Cry as much as you need to and let Him dry your tears. Dive into the Bible and ask that God draw you closer to Him than you’ve ever been. You’ll eventually stop crying, but right now you need to depend 100 percent on the Lord.

Dear Susie:
I’ve always had a NKJV Bible, because that’s what my Bible study group has used. I just bought a new NKJV and even had my name engraved on the front. The problem? I’m no longer in that group, and I’d rather have a Bible version that I can understand better. My parents don’t like a version that I’d like to try. Help!

Wanting To Grow

Dear Wanting To Grow:
There are lots of reputable translations out there. Go to your local Christian bookstore and look at all the options. I’m guessing you and your folks can find one you both like. The NIV is a great translation. But whatever translation you choose, make sure you get a student version filled with study helps, fun graphics and explanatory notes. This will help you understand what you’re reading and help you apply the words on the page to your life.

Ask your parents if the new Bible you already have can be your special Bible, and if you can get another one in a different translation to mark up and bend and use as your study Bible.

Dear Susie:
My grandma lives a couple houses down our street and is a big part of my life. My grandpa died about five years ago. Grandma says she’s a Christian, and she goes to church. But she has a boyfriend who has spent the night at her house a few times. I’m totally heartbroken that she could do that! I know I should talk to her, but what should I say?

Devastated

Dear Devastated:
I’m glad you and your grandma have a close relationship. It’s easy to understand why you’re so concerned about this situation. At this point the best thing you can do is bring it up with your parents. It’s possible that they aren’t even aware of what’s going on. Tell them how much your grandmother means to you. Explain why her relationship with her boyfriend bothers you so much. Let them know that this is a problem for you. And then ask them to pray with you about it.

I have a strong feeling that your mom and dad will know exactly what to do. Because of their age, their life experience and their relationship with your grandmother, they’re in a much better position to broach this subject with her than you are. They’ll probably be grateful to you for bringing this matter to their attention—and proud of your solid commitment to Christian purity. And most importantly, trust God to work in this situation!