Dear Doubtful:
I’m glad you understand that there’s a difference in “believing in God” your whole life and being “born again.” Yes, the Bible tells us to believe, but the original language in which the Bible was written defines believing as committing to with all one’s heart. So head knowledge isn’t enough to make someone a Christian. Even Satan believes in God!

Being born again or “receiving salvation” is a free gift from God. It’s only because of His grace that our sins are forgiven and we can be saved or born again.

I’m glad you feel more dedicated, but I’m not surprised you don’t feel different. Our relationship with Christ isn’t based on emotion; it’s based on the FACT that He promised He’d save us if we come to Him in genuine repentance. This is where faith comes in.

Check out Romans 3:20-24 for some great proof of God’s salvation for you!

Dear Susie:
I love to dance for my school, but I want to be a witness for Christ at the same time. I like to do hip-hop and jazz, and there seems to be a lot of music for that kind of dance, but it’s filled with sexual lyrics. Who are some good Christian artists I could dance to?
Stressed Dancer

Dear Stressed Dancer:
It’s great that you want to share your talent in a positive way. Choosing the right kind of lyrics can be a powerful way to share your faith. I recommend the CD We Are HIP HOPE (Gotee Records). It contains music from several different Christian artists such as tobyMac, Knowdaverbs, GRITS, John Reuben and more. Purchase or order the CD through your local Christian bookstore.

Dear Susie:
Last year I was sexually molested by a classmate, and since then I’ve been very depressed. What should I do?
Freaked Out

Dear Freaked Out:
I’m so sorry. That was a crime committed against you, and it should have never happened. Like all crimes, this needs to be reported. First, tell your parents. You’ll need their help and support in going to the authorities and finding a counselor.

If this ever happens again, tell someone immediately! No one has the right to abuse you.

Dear Susie:
I want to start a Christian rock band with some of my friends. People tell me it’ll be really hard to learn electric guitar, but I want to do it. I believe God has given me this passion. What do you think I should do?
Confused

Dear Confused:
Yes, it probably will be hard to learn guitar, but anything worth doing in life takes effort, determination and discipline. I encourage you to go for it! Are you familiar with the Christian rock band Superchic[k]? Melissa Brock, who plays electric guitar and sings for the group, taught herself to play guitar just before joining the band. She’s an incredible guitarist now! Who knows? Your group may be one we cover in Brio someday!

Dear Susie:
I've been a Christian for four years, but I don't feel like one at all. I hardly spend any time reading my Bible or praying. When I try to spend time with God, He seems distant and unreal. I need to have a better understanding of Him and a better relationship with Him.
Wanting To Be Faithful

Dear Wanting To Be Faithful:
Check this out: "Come near to God and he will come near to you" (James 4:8). God is thrilled that you want to be close with Him. When you take a few steps toward Him, He'll reach out and pull you closer. Isn't that comforting and exciting at the same time?

It sounds as though you already know what to do: Make time daily to read your Bible and talk with Him. Even if you only read one minute a day, you'll be surprised at the difference it'll make! Consider reading "In Step," the monthly devotional guide in Brio (in the Spiritual Health area of the Web site) and following the Bible reading plan listed there.

And realize there will be many days you won't feel like a Christian. That's OK. Your relationship with God isn't based on feelings; it's based on God's promises (facts!).