Faith in God

Mandie Nickels

"I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go," God promises us in Genesis 28:15. If I did not know that, I probably would not be able to go on in life. The world throws us so many hard balls, without any warnings, but it very reassuring that God will always help us through it.

I am 14 years old and live in a world of hate and temptation. Remarkably, I manage to walk away from temptation everyday because of the strength and love I receive from my heavenly Father. Everyday starts out with some form of temptation. The second I walk through the doors of my school, I walk into a society that is blind toward the word of God. It is a society filled with hate, as well as drugs, sex and many other harsh things. Having to say no to these temptations is a very common thing to me. I have not been able to play any sports, because the games are mostly on the Sabbath. But, I don't look at it as a punishment, because while they are playing basketball, I am learning and studying the true word of God.

"What does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul" (Deuteronomy 10:12). This verse means a lot to me because while I'm saying no and obeying the Lord, I am making Him happy -- doing just like what He wants me to do. I don't want to live any life without Him. Life is hard enough, so I couldn't imagine living this life without God's protection, guidance and love.

Growing up as a teenager in today's society is a hard, but equally wonderful experience. But with the word of God, I can walk on a clear path -- with His hand in mine.

Faith is really the key to survival. Faith in yourself to simply pursue your duty to the best of your ability, and at last return home with honor. Faith in your fellow man, and faith in your country and its national purpose and cause. The most important faith you can possibly ever have is the faith in God. He is the foundation for everything in life. Our lives, whether we are a teenager or an adult, are a constant journey. We have to learn and grow at every juncture as we make our way in life: sometimes tripping, but always moving, toward the ultimate purpose—to become like God in character and pursuit of life.

Mandie Nickels is a 14-year old Sabbath-keeper in Wyoming. You can write to her at miss_blondie@angelfire.com.

TSS

January - February 1999 The Sabbath Sentinel