Have you ever been influenced by your friends to do something you knew you probably shouldn’t do? Maybe you skipped a class simply because everyone else was. Perhaps you stayed quiet when you knew you should have stood up for something.
Peer pressure is something each of us deals with at times in our lives. It’s when we change our behavior to match what our friends are doing, even if we don’t agree with it. Sometimes we do it simply so we don’t stand out. Often, peer pressure causes us to go against our values because we don’t want to say no, even when we know we should.
The pull of peer pressure is very strong. And it takes real boldness to stand up and walk away when you know that those actions will cause you to be ridiculed behind your back.
My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them! – Proverbs 1:10 (NLT)
And even though sometimes we give in to peer pressure, saying yes to peer pressure doesn’t make things easier in the long run. Saying yes when you should say no sometimes makes you feel worse than you would have if you had just walked away.
Today’s Truth: A yes to peer pressure today doesn’t mean things will be easier tomorrow.
So if you haven’t, determine that this year you will stand up firm for God. Don’t let your friends influence you to make bad choices. Instead, decide that you will stand up boldly for God even if you’re alone. Don’t give in and go against what you know in your heart is right. Stand up. Stand firm for what is right. Even though you might experience ridicule in the short term, in the long run, you’ll be happy that you chose to stand up for what is right.
Pray: God I ask for your help this year at school. Help me to be bold and say no to peer pressure. I want to be a light for you this year in everything I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Go Deeper:
- Where are you tempted most when it comes to peer pressure?
- What are some strategies you can use to help you say no when you’re tempted to give in to peer pressure?
