Influence

dating3bSchool is right around the corner, and a new way of everyday life is approaching! Once again, we’ll be getting up early in the morning for school and going to bed late because of homework and practices. We’ll be fixing our hair and actually paying attention to the clothes we put on in the morning. With the school routine coming back to life, some other things are also changing, such as how many lives we touch in one day and how many people are watching us.

Some of us may not realize this, but going back to school places many more responsibilities on us as Christians. Responsibilities to talk, act, and simply just be a certain way (1 Thess. 5:22). The way we present ourselves to others may influence them on whether or not they want to become a child of God. Therefore, in every part of our existence we must first consider and follow the commands of God (Matt. 5:16).

This includes dating relationships. If we are dating someone, we must always think of how we behave together in front of our peers (Phil. 1:27). People will judge us and the Lord based on that behavior. We should all pray for God’s help in controlling our urges, and be vocal about where we stand. By openly abstaining from sexual contact, we may encourage others to do the same. But most important, we will be pleasing God.

Let’s make a statement at school by letting others know that we are saving your body for our future husband (1 Peter 1:15-16). In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, we see more and more teens having sex with people they barely know, which later leaves them with very little satisfaction. After a breakup, the two involved are left missing a huge piece of themselves. If we set a good example and make the statement of sexual purity to our peers, we may unknowingly help save some of them from making one of the biggest mistakes of their lives.

Also realize that there are many options when it comes to dating. For example, many teens choose not to date at all. To some, this may seem strange or extreme, but really it’s not. If you feel more comfortable not dealing with a boyfriend, then don’t have one! Being single will certainly eliminate some temptations. There is a lot of pressure to be in a relationship, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for every person. After searching God’s will, do what is best for you personally.

I understand the stress and the difficulty of being different from those with whom you go to school, but by being different, God will bless you, even though it may not feel like it at the time (John 17:16). Therefore, choose today to make a statement to your friends and peers, and pray that God will make you steadfast everyday. God is always here and He will never let you down; ask Him and He will give you what He sees fit. So this year at school decide for yourself what others will see when they are with you. Decide whether your statement will end in a period or a question mark.

Shelby Garrett

Shelby Garrett

Comments

  1. That is great column and I know that it’s okay for me to be different and it’s okay for me t do what I feel is best and for that I thank you.

  2. I love your signature! God’s timing is always so much better than ours, including with relationships, and I like that you addressed that!

Speak Your Mind

*