Hope in God

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jer. 29:11)

I came across a pregnant mother in the ER who had lost her job, and now
her young son has tried to take his life. She was upset emotionally and
crying - not knowing what to do or how she would make it. I sat with her
listening to her journey and attempted to encourage her. I thought maybe
Social Services would be of help with her financial situation. They arrived to
be of assistance. Before I left, I had asked her if it would be ok to go and
see her son who was in a room in ER; she gave me permission to visit her
son.

As I visited with her son, he shared his story from his perspective. He was
not doing well in school, and felt that teachers were against him, He was
tired of his mom's yelling, and the relationship between his parents
separation caused him pain. He felt there was no use in living.

I could see he needed someone understanding to just listen to him, support

him, and give him hope. I shared some reasons to live, encouraged him to
look in the future not just the present, as life has a way of changing for the
better after those teen years. I encouraged him to watch his responses to
others and be more tolerant with his mother and be respectful. He listened
very well, and I hope and pray that he took to heart what I shared with him.
God has a plan for this young man, and it is not to harm him, but to prosper
him physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

I proceeded to refer the patient to our supervisor of educational counseling

who counsels and helps trouble teens. Life is difficult at times, but we serve
a God who is in control. He has a plan for every young person and cares
what is happening in their lives. ©kidzministry.net– Rev. Jeanne McIntosh