Emily answered: That would be so hard. I’d be sad, too. I think you’ll do fine with staying strong and doing the right thing because you’re thinking about it now. If you weren’t worried about it, then I’d be worried about you. But since you’re focused on it, you’ll do great. Just decide now that you’re going to stand up for what’s right now matter what and be ready for whatever happens–even if they tease you pressure you.
Natalie said: Yeah, I agree with Em. Being prepared is the most important thing. Like my mom says, you have to realize the kinds of things you might be pressured or even tempted to do, and prepare a way to say no now. If you wait until you’re right in the heat of the moment, it’ll be harder to get out of the tough situation.
I’m sorry you have to go through this. I hope your dad finds a job soon. Just remember, it’s not your fault, but it’s not his either. Be good to your parents and don’t make them feel guilty for this. There’s nothing they can do about it. You know? But trust me, I’d hate it too!
Nicole said: Wow. Pretty soon my daughters are fgoing to squeeze me out of the website. They don’t seem to need me anymore. You know why, Ashlee? Because they’ve been studying, working, praying, and growing. They’ve watched me at work and they’ve hidden God’s Word in their hearts.
Which is exactly what you’ve been doing!
You’ve been prepared your whole life for such a time as this. It may very well be God’s desire for you to move into a new mission field–the public school–and bring His light and life to the hurting teens there. Draw from that strength you’ve been building over the years to make sure you don’t fall for temptation or into sin.
You’ve done the work, you’ve studied the Word, and you’ve stayed close to Jesus, there’s no reason to worry about making a mistake. You won’t be perfect–but you’ll be an example of God’s grace. You will make mistakes–but you’ll show others how to receive and offer forgiveness. So, rather than worry, just continue to pray for your own walk and that you’ll be a light to others around you.
You know, you just might be surprised. There are Christians who go to public school, and there are even non-Christians who do the right thing and support others who follow Jesus. Just have an open mind…not an open mind to sin, of course, but to people. Be open to what God has for you in this new mission and don’t pre-judged the experience to be miserable and set yourself up for defeat. This may very well turn out to be the best thing that could have happened to you.
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11
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I’d like to add one thing to this wonderful advice… If you can find a church youth group–which might include people your age who attend that public school–or a Bible study group at the school, you’ll be able to plug into a group who share your faith and will help you get adjusted to the new environment. I volunteer in the youth program at my church, and there are a lot of teens who attend public school.
You’ll be okay!
great advice, Diana!!!
Thanks for adding to the discussion. It’s a hard thing to go through at that age!