Dear Pastor,

I greet you in the name of Jesus Christ. I am a 16-year-old guy and I am a Christian. I am hurting, but I don't feel comfortable talking to my pastor because he loves to use the past to talk to people. When I was 14 years old I got into trouble and I was charged for carnal abuse. I got permission from the young girl and both of us had sex, but I was framed with four other boys and by the girl's uncle. Her uncle said that we raped her and now I am on probation for three years.

It was when the case came to an end that I gave my life to the Lord and I received the filling of the Holy Spirit. Now, pastor, I am uncomfortable because I am not living a good life. Sometimes demon is in me and I don't behave as a Christian anymore.

There are lots of things in my life that I would like to talk to you about. I have even got visions that I am preaching. I can preach very well, but I am not living the life that God could use me.

Hurting Young Man

Dear Hurting Young Man,

I am glad that you have become a Christian. I hope that you have learnt from your mistake. You are faced with the temptations that all young men experience. You will have to learn to control your sexual urges. Frankly, you need to sit with a counsellor. It is unfortunate that you do not have any confidence in your pastor.

However, you have sent me your telephone number and I will call you and refer you to one. In the meantime, continue to go to church, read your Bible and pray.

Pastor