Dear Ecko,

Others See Us More Clearly

Don't ignore what your friend is saying – usually others can see our behavior more clearly than we can see it ourselves. It sounds like you are getting another wake up call through your friend's reaction.

You Lose Self-Respect by Sleeping Around

You are losing a lot and gaining nothing by sleeping around. You said it yourself – you're losing self-respect (which is priceless) and valuable friendships.

But that's the point – her friend didn't stick with her, she "dumped" her!

Romantic relationships tend to come and go, but friends – good friends – stick with you through the ups and downs in life.

Pray for Self-Control

Plus, you could be losing even more than that – what if you get a disease? It's time to grow up and start exercising some self-control.

God can't take responsibility for her actions – she has to take responsibility for her own.

But what if you have tried to exercise self-control, but can't? Have you tried praying? You may not even realize it, but God does exist, and He knows you personally. God is concerned about every detail of your life, and He is waiting for you to come and surrender your life to Him so He can help you with the struggles you face. Ask Him for strength to overcome the temptation.

Your Friend Can Keep You Accountable

And you may also want to share your struggles in this area with your friend, and ask her to help keep you accountable.

– Hope