11/06/2024
Tiana has been struggling emotionally the last couple of weeks. It largely has to do with identity and trying to find her place with friends. She’s such a sweet girl, but at times she feels like she doesn’t have a set of close friends, or that her friends have moved on.
Edric and I listened to her, we let her cry, we tried our best to understand and comfort her, and we hugged her. I also believe this is a season when God is growing her character and her confidence in Him.
So often, like Tiana, we can look to others for validation and acceptance. We all have this tendency—the longing to feel important.
Some practical pointers I gave to Tiana (which I also try to practice):
1. Don’t wait for people to engage you. Engage them.
2. Ask questions and listen.
3. Show genuine interest in what people like, what matters to them.
4. Be happy for what others accomplish and what they have (beauty, skills, stature, popularity, wealth etc.). God allots to each person according to his good will and purpose. There’s no need to compare or feel inferior.
5. Learn from others.
6. Develop your own areas of giftedness and talent so you can be a blessing and point people to God.
7. Avoid mindless scrolling on social media because this feeds discontent and insecurity.
8. Pray for good friends and surrender to God your struggles and longings for validation.
9. Invest in your relationships at home.
10. When you feel alone, remember that you are beloved to God, beloved to your family. ❤️
❤️Ephesians 1 ❤️
