Maybe you are in a situation where you are constantly being ripped to shreds by what your parents say to you. So many parents these days say things that just cut the heart right out of their teen, and they do not even realize what they are doing.

Many times, even parents who say they are following the Lord end up saying things that totally tear at the self-esteem of a young person. We have done polls on thousands of teens and found that the things they have been most discouraged by have often come from parents. It is easy to feel completely paralyzed and demoralized by the hurtful things your parents say to you.

I remember thinking as I grew up that I would probably never make it in life. I thought, If my parents are saying these things to me, and they are supposed to love me the most, I guess I really am a loser.

I remember feeling the pain of words that I heard from them cut my sense of self-worth down to worthlessness. I remember wanting to end my own life after hearing things my parents said to me.

If you are right in the middle of a situation like this, you need to remember that you have a Heavenly Father. He only says good things about you. He is there to lift you up when you think no one else is. He knows exactly how low you feel and the pain you feel inside.

I know it will seem almost impossible for you to hang on, but reach out to Him with all your heart in these times. Escape with your Bible, and let your Father in heaven pick you back up and help you carry on.

Source: Quit Playing With Fire by Ron Luce.
Excerpt permission granted by Teen Mania Ministries