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.
Excerpt permission granted by Teen Mania Ministries
Ron Luce was the co-founder and president of Teen Mania Ministries from 1986-2015. Ron and his wife Katie dreamed to raise young people who would change the world.
Ron received his bachelor's degree in Psychology and Theology from Oral Roberts University and his master's in Counseling Psychology from the University of Tulsa, along with an honorary doctorate from Jerry Falwell of Liberty University. He is a sought-after speaker who has traveled to more than 60 countries and has made numerous media appearances, such as Dr. James Dobson's Focus on the Family radio broadcast, CNN, The O'Reilly Factor, ABC Nightline, The 700 Club, Trinity Broadcasting Network, and the Sean Hannity Show. Ron has also written 35 books for teens, youth pastors, and parents and continues to speak at leaders' conferences helping parents and pastors understand the plight of today's youth and showing them how all of us can be part of the solution.
Ron and Katie currently live in Garden Valley, Texas, with their son Cameron. They have two daughters, Hannah and Charity.