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A new student has started going to my Christian school. He says he's a Christian, but I have doubts because of what he does and says. I've tried being his friend, but he's hard to get along with. I want to accept him, but I can't help but think he's a bad person. I would rather help him than dislike him, but that's what I need help with. How can I be Christlike to someone I don't like? How can I witness to someone if I can't get along with him?

Right now there is a person in my life I just don't like. It's hard even being around her! But I've started praying for her every day. Since then, I find myself understanding her more. My attitude and prayers for her are changing too; both are becoming warmer and friendlier.

I believe God is challenging me (and maybe you too) to be a good witness to hard-to-love people. Since God has placed this guy in your life, give the relationship a shot. But you don't have to be his best friend. Start with small steps and see how it goes. Pray for this guy, and pray God will work on your feelings toward him.

Eventually, try spending some time with him. Since you don't get along right now, hang out in a group. Talk about what interests him.

Find ways to show him you care about him. Hopefully, you can be a great influence on him. But if it isn't working and it's possibly even bringing you down or away from God, then spend less time with him.

Jesus definitely spent time with people who were not living for God and weren't really too likeable. This is a challenge for us. But Jesus gave us a model: He showed unfailing love and was always authentic. Try not to focus on the bad things this guy does. Don't look down on him or be judgmental. Just show him Christ through the way you act. If you need to, politely and respectfully point things out that aren't right according to the Bible. It's hard to follow Jesus' model, but it's a great goal.

Due to the volume of mail, Jim cannot answer every letter.

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