Seven Suggestions for My Teenage Self

As I look back, I realize my teen years could have been happier and more productive if I had done some things differently. So, teenage self, here is my advice to you.

1. Care less about what people think and more about what God thinks. Pursue His will in all things, even if there is a cost.

2. Maximize the present instead of worrying too much about the future. While it's natural to look to the future when you will be an adult and make your own way through life, don't forget to enjoy each day of your teen years as a gift from God.

3. Focus more on others. Celebrate your friends' wins without wondering why you don't have the same abilities or advantages. (Philippians 2:3)

4. Appreciate your strengths and worry less about your inabilities. Develop those strengths and use them to honor God.

5. Pay more attention to your inner character than your outer self. Beauty fades, but inner beauty can keep growing.

6. Look for good Christian friends who will link arms with you in the fight for faith. Don't be afraid to share your faults with trusted sisters in Christ who will pray with you and keep encouraging you to grow. And be that kind of friend to others.

7. Don't side with the devil in accusing others. He loves to point the finger, put down, and lie. Don't join him by listening to his lies about yourself or others, or by putting others down. Be part of the light instead of the surrounding darkness.