One of the biggest factors that lead young people to have sex early and outside of marriage is low self-esteem. Many feel they should give into the pressures of sex so they don’t hurt anyone’s feelings or because they feel it is something they “should just do”. And many times they really aren’t ready to take such a big step. Self-esteem can give you the power to say no to sex, and yes to abstinence until marriage.

In a world where peer pressure and the desire to be “loved” are such strong forces, self-esteem can be a lifeline. When young people feel good about themselves, they are less likely to behave in ways that might hurt them. And even though people with high self-esteem will still make mistakes, they are more likely to learn from them.

Young people must understand that the choices they make today will absolutely affect their futures. Even more important, they must understand that their futures are far more important than impressing or pleasing someone else. It is up to you to make the right decision for you. So have the confidence to make that right decision!