One of life’s hardest lessons is that the decisions we make always have consequences, and when those decisions are bad, the consequences will also be bad. I often quote the Bible’s warning: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows” (Galatians 6:7).

Do I sound harsh or insensitive to you and your problem? I hope not, because that’s not my intention at all. Yes, you are paying the consequences for what you’ve done (as I’m afraid countless others are doing, in spite of constant warnings about the dangers of sexually-transmitted diseases). But God has not changed in His love for you, and the most important advice I can give you is to turn to Christ and make Him the center of your life. You are valuable to Him, so valuable that He gave His life for you.

What difference will Christ make? First, He offers you forgiveness and cleansing for all your sins. You are guilty before Him, not just for breaking His laws concerning sexual relations, but for leaving Him out of your life. But on the cross all your sins were placed on Jesus, and He paid the price for your salvation.

In addition, Christ will give you a new reason for living. It may take you in unexpected directions, but when we are in God’s hands, we know His way will be perfect. Don’t be bound by the past, but turn your life over to Christ and then seek His will for your future.