Do not become discouraged. Always pray to keep from becoming discouraged in your walk with the Lord. Sometimes it may seem as if you are missing out on things of this world...well..that is partly right, we do not partake in the "evils" of the world. Do not look on in wistfulness at those who seem to be happy and in control while leading a less than honorable life. They may seem secure in themselves, but truly, there is no security in human and man-made things. Does surrendering to God's will sometimes feel like you are "giving up"? Well, in a way, we are. But it is a humbling act that we do when we give our will over to God. It is the way that you let God know that you trust what He will do for you will be the right thing. God will sometimes ask you to just "sit and wait", be patient while He works in your life, but sometimes He will ask that you participate to accomplish His will. How do you know what to do at which time? We need to pray for guidance, for discernment, to hear God's voice. then trust God when He asks you to "move" to step out in faith. Know that when you follow God's law, live in His word, He will guide you, He will not let you down. Matthew 9: 22 "Courage, daughter, your faith has restored you to health!" Proverbs 28: 9 "When one turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination." Proverbs 28: 26, 14 "He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is safe." "Happy he one who is always on guard."