Expert: Brenda Martin - 11/7/2005

Question
Hi,
I just recently broke up with my boyfriend of 2 and a half months that I lost my virginity to and I'm only 16. my virginity was something that I truly cherished before this boy and I don't know why I gave it to him, especially because now I know he didn't care about me. I feel absolutely horrible about it, I can't get it off my mind. I know I've sinned. I just want to know two things: 1) am I going to hell? 2)how can I be forgiven?


Answer
1) AM I GOING TO HELL?

You may be surprised and relieved to learn that; “hell” as in” fiery place of torture” doesn't exist, God is a “God of love” it is a church teaching, not a bible teaching.

2)HOW CAN I BE FORGIVEN?

Fortunately, God is very merciful. “For you, O Jehovah, are good and ready to forgive,” said the psalmist. (Psalm 86:5) The Bible states that “God is greater than our hearts and knows all things.” (1 John 3:20) God sees more than our sins. The greatness of his knowledge enables him to hear with sympathy our earnest pleas for forgiveness.

It is not necessary to address God with fancy or pretentious language. “Before him pour out your heart,” said the psalmist. (Psalm 62:8) Let him know your feelings, your concerns. Ask him for help in dealing with your weaknesses. Pray for his blessing upon your family and upon fellow Christians. Beg him for forgiveness when you err. Thank him daily for the gift of life. When prayer becomes a regular part of your life, it can bring you into a close and happy relationship with Jehovah God.

Forgiveness is a facet of Jehovah's great love. In his Word, he assures us that when we manifest genuine, heartfelt repentance, he is willing to forgive. (Proverbs 28:13)

All the best
Brenda