Lions and Tigers and Boys, Oh My!

 If you haven't read my last two posts, I encourage you to go back and read them, because they can be a great background for this next topic. We have created a foundation for our identity, but just because you know who you are doesn't mean you won't let your identity be compromised. Maybe you don't struggle with knowing yourself or finding a home, but I can almost guarantee you've had some sort of experience with boys. 

Whether you have had 10 boyfriends or never even looked twice at a boy, this message is for you. In college, it can be hard to find affirmation. When your mom isn't around to say she's proud of you all the time and you don't have many close friends yet, it can get lonely. Sometimes, you'll meet a guy and he will tell you he's different from all the high school boys because he's mature and knows what he wants and thinks you are his future wife, and sometimes that same guy dumps you with no warning. 

Break ups aren't always a bad thing, and they can bring you better experiences and people you didn't know you needed, but they can also be devastating. I have seen a devastating breakup or two, and they are so painful to watch, but even more painful to live through. Most of the time, the things you love the most can hurt you the most. This is why it is of the utmost importance to guard your heart. This doesn't mean that you cant date and you cant tell a guy you love him (when you're ready). This simply means that you have to be careful with what you let into your heart.

If you have a boyfriend, it is important to spend time with him, but leave some room for friends, family, and especially Jesus. Jesus will protect your heart and bless your relationship if you ask him to. If the center of your heart revolves around a boy, I would think that a breakup would be pretty earth shattering. But if Jesus is at the center of your life, your breakup will not be so devastating because you have hope in the Lord. Proverbs 4:23 says "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it". Before you put effort into a relationship with a boy, make sure you already have a steady relationship with your Heavenly Father, because He cares for you more than anyone else.