Dear Susie:
My grandmother and I were very, very close. She passed away unexpectedly nearly three months ago. I’ll be fine for days at a time; then I start grieving again. I think I’m finally getting better—then something reminds me of her, and I start crying. I know I can’t go on like this for the rest of my life. Can you help?
Grieving
Dear Grieving:
I’m so sorry! My mom died three years ago, and I still miss her so much I sometimes don’t think I can bear it. And you know what? I just go ahead and cry. It’s OK. God understands our tears.
What you and I have to remember is that grieving is a process. We’ll never completely stop missing your grandma and my mom, but the process will get easier.
I’m so glad the two of you were close! I know you have lots of wonderful memories. Psalm 34:18 tells us that God is very close to those whose hearts are breaking. Take comfort in the fact that He truly understands!
Dear Susie:
I totally want to commit to Christ and follow His will for my life. I know god has big plans for me, but I don’t know where to start. Everything I do seems too small or way wrong! Help!
Waiting for Directions
Dear Waiting,
I’m excited that you want to become all that God desires for you! If you don’t yet have a relationship with Christ, start by asking Him to forgive your sins. Then tell Him that you’re placing your entire life in His hands. Thank Him for His forgiveness.
To grow deeper spiritually, you’ll want to read your Bible consistently, pray daily and get involved in a church and youth group. I encourage you to begin reading the Gospel of John.
Dear Susie:
I keep hearing that humans are basically evil. This upsets me because I know that’s not true. God said that we were made in His image. So though our hearts are desperately in need of Him, we can’t be evil. Why do people think that?
Confused
Dear Confused:
Yes, we were made in the image of God, but the Bible also says we’re born with sin. Think of it this way: We are God’s masterpiece, but Satan tried to destroy the masterpiece in the Garden of Eden. We’re now broken.
The good news is that God didn’t leave things broken; He sent Christ to restore us in His image. When we accept Him as our Savior, He forgives our sins, but until we place our faith in Him, we’re evil people filled with sin.
Dear Susie:
I’m 15 years old and don’t know how I’m going to make it. Things are tough right now: My friend killed herself, and I just found out I’m pregnant. I didn’t even want to have sex, but he made me. I feel like I’m alone. No one cares. And my boyfriend dumped me for another girl. Any advice?
Desperate
Dear Desperate:
Yes, you are in a tough place right now, but suicide is never the answer! If the guy you were with forced you to have sex, you were date-raped. That needs to be reported to the authorities.
I realize you didn’t plan on getting pregnant, but please don’t even consider an abortion! There are countless couples waiting in line to adopt a child. Giving up your baby for adoption could be the answer to one couple’s prayer.
Though you feel you’re alone, you’re really not. God still loves you. He has always loved you, and He’ll never stop loving you! He has the power you need to make it through this incredibly difficult time in your life. Please seek His help.
Don’t try to handle your confusion and hurt all by yourself. You need professional counseling, and the first step to getting that kind of support is to talk with your parents and let them help you. We love you!
