Peer Pressure

How do you handle peer pressure?

by Simi Akinwande

Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Galatians 1:10

There are times we often feel to act a certain way, say things, dress in a manner to please others or to be accepted by society. The peer pressures of this world can make us conform to the way the world lives and make us take part in those activities that are wrong. People can manipulate your thoughts and actions but ultimately the only person who has any control over your attitude and values is you.

Most times doing what is right can be seen as a cowardly act by others, however the Bible teaches that whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin (James 4:17) therefore make it a lifelong goal to learn to live faithfully for God and reject the negative influences of media, music, friends and society.

Saying NO to taking drugs, saying NO when your boyfriend asks you to go further, saying NO to cheating in that exam paper, saying NO to stealing, saying NO to lying for a friend, saying NO to racism, saying NO to injustice....the answer is YES when someone asks if you are Christian as your responses to the above is a true reflection of Christ.

Being able to stand up for what is right is only by the grace of God, so ask God to always be your mouthpiece and give you the confidence to stand up for what is right.

Reflection:

Do you struggle with saying or doing things to please others instead of rather doing those things which pleases God for the fear of being classified as the "odd one"?

Application Step:

Take small steps by practicing saying No without feeling guilty or apologetic and sticking to your decisions. Transform your thinking by always remembering that God's approval has more value than what the world thinks of you.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for accepting me just the way I am; even with my imperfections. Lord I struggle with saying No to what I know is wrong, Father give me the boldness to stand for what is right in my everyday life, and help me turn away from what displeases you. Thank you for your constant love. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.