“If I could travel back in time and have a conversation with myself at the sweet tender age of 16, what would I say?” After all, I anticipated “sixteen” as a period of being significant in the world of adulthood. At that time, I thought I knew it was a turning point of knowing what life was all about and I felt equipped to handle life’s challenges…However, this was far from reality. I decided to reach my inner self to remind my adolescence of utilizing the innate tools which were instilled within me. Some helpful admonishers I need to tell the younger version of me include:

“Always put GOD first!” Remember how fortunate you were to have resided in a household where you were exposed to having a relationship with GOD? The seeds of faith were planted. Matthew 6:33 serves as a reminder, “But seek first the kingdom of GOD and HIS righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” At 16, realize that you don’t know everything. There will be rough waters ahead. There will be times you will feel like a victim, yet, with GOD at the helm of your ship, He will steer you in the right direction towards victories in your paths. Keep GOD as the center of your life in order to meet daily challenges in which you will face in this world.

Remain active in the CHURCH. Remember growing up spending time in the CHURCH practically all day serving in the various ministries? Those were antecedents which prepared you in future functions to further help others in sharing the “GOOD NEWS” of GOD and HIS son CHRIST even while greeting. “And if you will indeed obey my commandments that I command you today, to love the LORD your GOD, and to serve HIM with all your heart and with all your soul.” Deuteronomy 11:13.

It’s okay to “smile.” I know as a teen, I became self- conscious due to wearing braces. However, think of smiling as an investment. It is a deceptive mask which disguises the “blues.” It has the great potential to become contagious in an infectious way… imagine it could even erupt into laughter, (lol)! A smile is an international peaceful symbol which anyone can read in any language.

Continue to READ’s WORD so you can make new discoveries about the goodness of GOD.

What better way of communicating with our HEAVENLY FATHER than through HIS WORD. Continue to incorporate devotions which was an important part of your family traditions. Your children will benefit and even surprise you as you listen to them still proclaiming their faith. Joshua 24:15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”

Learn to take care of yourself spiritually, mentally, and physically so you can continue to help others. Your body is important as the BIBLE emphasizes in I Corinthians 6:19 “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the HOLY SPIRIT within you, whom you have from GOD? You are not your own.” Nourish your soul with GOD’s WORD. Mentally- develop wisdom.
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7 Maintain being physically active as well. Remember eating should be done in moderation, (especially fries). Self-care is essential in life.

Yes, “sixteen” may be a pivotal age, but recognize there is much in life to learn If GOD is present!