I’ve spent many years instructing young people and even though our world has drastically changed over the years – the basic fears, hopes, dreams and self-esteem of our kids hasn’t.
When you go from child to teen you’re entering a totally new world – one that expects you to look a certain way; wear clothes that fit the mold; feel a specific way. In addition, you have so many changes going on in your physical self. Your body is going through a metamorphous. Your face breaks out – your voice changes – your body is growing- your emotions are on a constant roller coaster ride – you try to fit in and follow peer pressure. To top that off, you’re living in a world filled with violence, inhumanity, wars, hatred and confusion and the push for success is immense.
You’re told to act your age, but you still enjoy doing childish things. Your parents want you to make decisions you aren’t prepared to make. You begin to question the world – your friends – your parents – your religion.
This is the time in your life that you need something to trust in – someone to depend on – someone to take care of you.
God has created you for a purpose. You weren’t an accident. God doesn’t make mistakes. You’re His creation and you’re a masterpiece. Take a look at what you are in His eyes. He loves you with a love you will never experience in this world. He wants you to come to Him when you are lost, hopeless, desperate. He’ll never give up on you. If you make mistakes, He’s always waiting to forgive you. He doesn’t want you to worry. He loves everything about you – even your faults.
Invite Him to sit in your desk with you. Make Him your BFF as you walk this new path. With Him, all things are possible – especially YOU!
atimetoshare.me 
Love your post! I will add that it is especially important that loved ones are “the face of Christ” for these older kids. We can show them a glimpse of His unconditional love.
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Absolutely, Cate. The example we set in our homes is the best place to arm them with God’s presence in their lives and His ndying love for them.
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Great post, Kathy. I could feel your passion in this one. 😀
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Thank you. Lately I have been hearing from many kids in this age group who have considered suicide or self- hurting. I feel so naive in this area. These are kids from good Christian homes and families, but they still feel hopeless. I do have a passion for them because my own childhood was filled with self doubt. I just pray they will know they are loved and that God has a plan for them
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I know what you mean. It’s hard not to have compassion on them and want to help them. It’s hard for me to understand some of the problems of the current generation of kids.
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You are nominated for very inspiring blogger award.
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I am honored to be nominated for this, but I don’t usually respond to these because I’m not writing to receive recognition. I only want to encourage others though Christ. I will take a look at the blogs you recommended though and thank you for your confidence in me.
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