Pressure, is all around us. Wars, earthquakes, floods, blizzards, accidents, job loss, divorce, abortion,…the list could go on and on. Teenage girls today are feeling the pressures of the world around them, and far too many are making bad choices to try and cope with the pressures they are feeling. Many young ladies are turning to drugs, alcohol, cutting, eating disorders, bad relationships, sex; anything that will just …“take the pain away”.

What is wrong with this line of thinking? It is merely a disguise to make you think they can take the pain away, and after they have your attention, they destroy you. Where might someone find hope in such a desperate world? I know for many of you, you already know the answer…GOD! But yet, many of you are turning your backs on the truth you know, taking what you think is an easy way out of a problem and consequently causing more problems for yourself and those around you, who love you very much.

God says in his word, that he will never leave you or forsake you, he knows the plans he has for you, and he knew you from when you were being formed in your mother’s womb. Yet, at times we forget that God is even here, we search for help instead of searching for the ‘helper’. God is real, and able to lead, guide and direct you. Hope is found in his everlasting promises. God is the same, yesterday, today and tomorrow. He cannot lie, and he will not forsake you.

God says in his word, do not fear for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God, I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. That sounds like someone I want nearby me when I am hurting and confused. He also says; for I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand, and says to you, do not fear, I will help you.

You have God on your side! God can do what drugs, alcohol, sex, and cutting can NOT do for you. God loves you. God promises you that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like Eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Your hope for the desperate situation you may find yourself in…is found in a relationship with GOD. Like all relationships, it is a two way street. I challenge you today, to talk with God, invite him into your life, ask him to carry your troubles for you and teach you how to be an over comer, not someone who gives in under life’s pressures. You were created to be a winner, and winners never quit! So I challenge, you …get up…and keep fighting. Do it God’s way, not the world’s way. The world’s way does not work, but God’s way never fails. Trust in him; put your hope in him. Surround yourself with the love of God and the desire to hurt yourself, will go away, and you will begin to soar on the promises God has for a wonderful life for you. Be brave, take this challenge and reach for all you can be, rise above the circumstances that pressure you, and see that you are more than a conqueror through Christ who strengthens you. You are loved and you are valuable. Don’t ever Quit!