Answers

By   •   October 19, 2009   •   Topics: ,

Q:

I'm in high school, and my family isn't a very happy one (divorce, unemployment, etc.). Whenever I get depressed I start eating, and now I'm quite a bit overweight. This makes me even more unhappy, so I eat even more. I need to get out of this, but how?


A:

You have already taken the first step by realizing you have a problem and wanting to do something about it. That may not seem like much — but it is, because without it nothing is going to change in your life.

But you’ve also taken another important step: You understand why you’ve gotten into this situation. This too is important; you might be surprised how often people overlook it (or even refuse to face it, because they don’t want to admit that they are part of the problem). Unfortunately, it’s easier to blame others for our problems than to face our own responsibility.

How can you overcome this? First, turn to Christ and ask Him to come into your life. God loves you, and the most important step you can take is to accept His love by receiving Christ into your life. He welcomes you just as you are, and He wants to help you overcome your problems.

Then realize that God wants you to learn to live above your circumstances, instead of being crushed by them. Yes, you wish your home was a happier place, and maybe some day it will be. But in the meantime, remember that Christ is your constant friend, and He cares about you. Find your joy in Him, not in food. The Apostle Paul said, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11).