I just read another story about a teen that was bullied, and chose to take his life. It was heartbreaking. Most people’s reaction to a story like this, aside from the obvious sadness, is one of outrage. How could other students be so cruel to this child? What would possess a person to devalue another’s life so much? What is the matter with them?
All of us want and need to know that we are valuable…that we make a difference in this world that we live in. That we matter. We might not choose the helpless and hopelessness of taking our own life, but many people are left dying on the inside.
The older I get the more I realize the truth of the saying, “Be kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” Most people are good at covering it up, going on with their day, keeping their hurts to themselves….but, it doesn’t mean that the battle isn’t real, or it doesn’t exist. A kind word, an encouragement, a hug, or a listening ear can make a real difference.
Jesus understood this when He said, “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)
God loved us so much (true love, real love, perfect love) that He gave His one and only Son (Jesus), that whosoever (regardless of age, gender, race, or socio-economic background) believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)
He thinks each of us is valuable and worthy.
It Just Dawned On Me 