We live in a fast-paced, exciting and, at times, dangerous world. Often, we are naive in our own self-protection. There comes a time in our lives when we must make decisions that will keep us safe all the way around. This needs to start in the early teens. So, let’s look at some of them….
Teens
Our Deceptions, Our Fears and Our Hope: Part I
Fear is a terrible thing. It rules much of our lives, and it delights the adversary, who is the father of fear as well as lies. He is the constant source of whispers that sound like this: “You’ve gone too far; you’ve done too much; you’re not loved anymore and there is no hope.” Those…
The Greatness of Failure
A mom told me about a conversation she had with her teen daughter many years ago. The daughter had played ball for a varsity team, which seemed to be a good thing. The problem was that she was always on the bench for most of the game. She wanted to be part of everything, but she…
Our Deceptions, Our Fears and Our Hope: Part III
Zion: The Pure in Heart. With that thought a feeling began to grow in me. Was I pure? Did that mean perfect? No, it did not mean perfect, but it did mean not being worldly. Was I good? Did I believe in my goodness? Could I stand alone on my goodness? Could I look…
Teens: Look Ahead With Optimism!
When we look at all that is going on around in the world, we could think that the world is horrible and all is going to end with a terrible bang! Can I assure you that the world is going to go on and there will be good moments and bad moments as there always…
Our Deceptions, Our Fears and Our Hope: Part II
Now, I came to the point that I needed an answer, not only for the people that I counseled with, but for myself. How does one deal with the tough things of life? I started to fast, and by that night in prayer I received an answer. It was so clear that I started to…
It Started with a Lie
This is a story that is both sad and hopeful. As you journey with us, you will see that any one of us could be in this same mess. Perhaps, many have been through something similar. A girl came to me for counseling. About 17, she looked like she had been through a train wreck….