Overcoming Peer Pressure
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:1-2 (KJV)
When we hear the term peer pressure, we often think of children in school being influenced by other students. However, this term applies at any age. Each and every one of us must be able to overcome the influence of others on us and our decision-making. Here are a few simple, straight-forward tips:
Be yourself. If others don’t like who you really are, God will bring those who do. Don’t allow the opinions of others to shape who you are.
Don’t compromise. Compromise is a mixture of obedience and disobedience, and partial obedience is actually disobedience.
Stand out rather than trying to fit in. Fitting in is often easier, but being true to yourself and to God is more important.
Take a stand. Let people know where you stand. Don’t turn from what you believe in, even if it makes you unpopular.
Do what’s right. Don’t be pressured into doing something that violates your conscience and convictions. Avoid wrong people and wrong places.
Be a leader not a follower. A good leader leads by example. Strong leaders often start as outcasts, but in time, other people turn and follow them.
Don’t be ashamed of Jesus. Follow Jesus, not the crowd. A relationship with Jesus Christ is more valuable than anything you can gain on earth. Don’t allow ridicule from others to turn you away from the only One who loves you completely.
Learn to say NO. Choosing to say no to the crowd can be difficult, but in the end, it can preserve your life.
Please God rather than people. Seek the approval of God instead of the approval of mankind.
Be around those who will accept you for you. Choose to associate with those who choose you.
Fellowship with Christians, yet be a witness to others by being gracious, merciful and kind to the unsaved.
Stay in the Word to stay strong. The Word carries a level of power that the world cannot overcome.
Stay prayed up, especially praying in the Holy Spirit. Praying in tongues strengthens and empowers us inthe inner man. Staying connected and close to God in prayer will keep us from prioritizing others over Him. Inner strength from God can help you overcome outward pressure.
Let no one despise or look down on you based on your age or any other label. Whether they say you are too young, too old, too poor, too old-fashioned, or whatever, don’t allow yourself to be dismissed. You are relevant and capable because you have the Spirit of God in you.
Be the best you can be. Make the effort to develop yourself as the Lord leads you. There is a plan and purpose for your life, so take the steps to be the best you can at whatever your assignment may be.
