You Are More Than They Say You Are.

In my last post, I mentioned some of the bullyings I experienced as a kid, and I have been spending a lot of time contemplating my thoughts and emotions at that point of my life.

Statistically speaking, 28% of U.S. students in grades 6–12 say they have experienced bullying while 20% of U.S. students in grades 9–12 say they have experienced bullying.

Bullying is a problem we have to get better at addressing, but what we do about bullying is not why I'm writing today. Maybe I will discuss what I see as solutions another day, but today I want to say something to those of you who have ever experienced or currently are being bullied today.

YOU ARE MORE THAN THEY SAY YOU ARE!

Let's be honest with each other, words hurt. Bullies can attack you in a variety of ways, and when someone is continuously tearing you down verbally or spreading rumors about you, it is not hard to begin wondering if what they are saying about you is true. I have been in your shoes, and I understand the toll be teased and picked on can take on you. The words and actions of others can destroy your self-worth and make you feel insignificant.

Here it again: YOU ARE MORE THAN THEY SAY YOU ARE!

God has created you in His image. In Psalm 139 David describes how God has perfect knowledge of us, and how God took time and care in creating each of us. God knows us better than we know ourselves and there is nothing we can hide from him. This creator who knows you and who took time to craft each of us is the God who loves you, and he has created you with a purpose in mind.

God loves you, and you are not alone. I understand that what you are going through now may seem like more than you can handle, but you do not have to face it alone. I mean it when I say God has created you with a purpose and I truly believe it is a purpose only you, with the help of the Holy Spirit, can carry out. Remember, you are "fearfully and wonderfully made." The words being used against you are nothing more than lies intended to cause you harm, but you are so much more than those words. You will get through this; things will get better.

God is here for you, and I am here for you because you are so much more than they say you are.

With Love. In Christ,

Youth Pastor Eric

P.S. If you or someone you know is being bullied, GET HELP! Find a trusted adult (youth pastor, teacher, parent, etc.) and tell them what is going on. You have a right to stand up for yourself against bullying, and you do not have to do it alone.

If you or a friend are in physical danger, please call 911 immediately, find an adult who can help, and find somewhere you will be safe.

If it just seems too much and you are contemplating harming yourself: please understand that there is more of your story to be told. You can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7/365 online or by dialing 1-800-273-8255.

Remember YOU ARE NOT ALONE.