Jane hesitated as she nervously looked at me. “I don’t know if you’re aware of this or not, but there’s a boy in Trina’s class who has been showing a lot of interest in her.” Jane wasn’t smiling, and I waited for her to continue. “Kyle is very personable, good looking, and popular, but . . .” Jane sighed. “I really shouldn’t be telling you this, and if the administration finds out I said anything, I’ll deny it.”

Lord, I prayed silently, give Jane the courage to tell me what’s going on. “What is it?” I asked.

“Kyle has been accused by two different girls of date rape. No charges have been brought against him yet, but I wouldn’t want anything to happen to Trina. So please don’t let her go out with him.”

That evening I told my husband about what Jane had said. We were both in agreement that Trina would not be allowed to date Kyle. Trina was angry with us for a while, but later, when the truth came out, she was grateful that we had said no.

Adults aren’t the only ones to suffer in abusive relationships. Teens are also vulnerable to violence and may not have the wisdom or experience to realize they are in danger. Know what your children are doing and who their friends are. Pray for wisdom and protection.