A: Dear Andrew,

Thanks for writing!

Have you tried asking your friends to stop, or letting them know it bothers you? Jesus says that when we feel we've been treated wrong by someone, we need to let them know it in a kind way (Matthew 18:15).

Some kids make fun of others because they are very insecure about themselves and it makes them feel better to put others down. Pray for your friends that Jesus will give them a change of heart.

Another reason some kids make fun of others is because of the reaction they get. That means when they see you getting annoyed, they might tease you even more. Ask Jesus to help you not to react in a negative way to their teasing. The Bible says that we should "overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21). This means when they tease you, don't act any different or treat them any different.

You might also ask yourself if there's something that you are doing that deserves teasing. For example, do you tease them, or someone else? Make sure you are treating others as you wish to be treated (Matthew 7:12).

If after all these things your friends won't respect your feelings, you may need some new friends. I know this may be hard to hear or think about, but a friend is someone who loves and respects you for who you are. If after The reason people tease others is usually because of the reaction they get. If you act like it annoys you, they may tend to do it more.

I will pray for you and your friends, and thanks for writing.

Pastor Howard