07 Jan Struggles of Youth in Meghalaya

Meghalaya, is known as “the Scotland of the East” for its scenic beauty and praised as “the land of wine and honey” for its fertile land, with a rich history.

In 1841, Thomas and Anne Jones arrived in Sohra, establishing the first permanent mission among the Khasis. They introduced literacy and the Khasi Alphabet, aiming to improve lives and most important, to lead people towards Christ. God brought their efforts to fruition but despite early enthusiasm, the state’s spiritual fervour has waned, with many professing faith superficially while their hearts have gone astray. This departure from God’s path has led to painful consequences, emphasizing the need for repentance and divine intervention.
This article discusses the significant issues confronting Meghalaya’s youth, notably the rising problem of teenage pregnancy. With a prevalence rate of 53%, as reported by NFHS 4, many pregnancies are unplanned and outside of marriage, indicating a societal trend towards accepting premarital relationships. Although abortion may appear as a remedy, it frequently results in enduring regret, underscoring the multifaceted nature of the problem.

Jeremiah 1:5 tells us that God knows us before He forms us in the womb. Psalm 139:13-16 speaks of God’s active role in our creation and formation in the womb. For the Christian, abortion is not a matter of a woman’s right to choose to have a baby. The baby is already present and living. Abortion is a matter of the life or death of a human being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27; 9:6).

I know a young lady who chose not to abort despite an unplanned pregnancy. Despite challenges, she embraced motherhood, completed her studies, and stood independently. Her unwavering faith in God’s goodness sustained her through it all. Christians should support, not judge, those facing similar struggles, reflecting Christ’s love and offering practical help during difficult times.

Suicide rates are rising, reflecting a tragic reality of individuals feeling so desperate that they see ending their own lives as the only solution. However, suicide is considered a sin, violating the commandment against murder (Exodus 20:13) and rejecting God’s sovereignty.

The Bible speaks of many who felt deep despair in life. Solomon, in his pursuit of pleasure, reached the point where he “hated life” (Ecclesiastes 2:17). Elijah was fearful and yearned for death (1 Kings 19:40). Jonah was so angry at God that he wished to die (Jonah 4:8).

In times of sorrow and despair, we yearn for comfort and support. Not everyone has friends who can provide this, but we can always turn to Jesus, our unwavering friend, who offers solace to the broken-hearted and remains constant in every season of life.

Youth often turn to substance abuse as an escape, unaware of its addictive nature until it’s too late. This blurs the distinction between Christians and others. Yet, as believers, we belong to God and must honour Him with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

Despite life’s challenges, we find solace in God’s promises, trusting Him to turn all things for our benefit and His glory and remind ourselves that God’s calling must be greater than any other thing that tries to convince us otherwise.

Rachel Nora Nongrang, a teacher at Langtor Higher Secondary School. She was an EU Student of Mairang ICEU, Meghalaya and presently an young graduate and a committee member at Maairang EGF.