I thought moving to a big city and getting a job there would solve all my personal problems, so that's what I did. It was exciting at first, but I haven't made even one good friend here, and I'm so lonely I don't know what to do. Have I made a mistake? — R. McK.

You are discovering what generations before you have learned: We seldom solve problems by running away from them. The reason is because most of our problems are within us, and no matter where we go, we carry them with us.

Have you made a mistake by moving to the city? Only you can answer that, of course—but I do urge you to seek God's will for your future. In other words, simply moving somewhere else or going back home probably won't solve your personal problems; they will still be with you.

But God loves you, and He knows all about your situation. More than that, He wants to help you deal with your problems. One of the Bible's greatest promises is found in Jeremiah 29:11: "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"

Begin by turning to God and asking Jesus Christ to come into your life. Then trust the future into His hands. The Bible says, "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him" (Psalm 37:5). Ask Him also to guide you to a church where Christ is preached and you can meet other believers your age. A city can be a very lonely place—but with Christ in your heart you are never alone, for He is with you and so are your fellow believers.