Too often we get in a situation surrounded by the people we love and do things we know we should not do because of peer pressure. If we look carefully at our lives, many of the times that we have compromised our faith is due to peer pressure. The peer pressure may have come from our friends, work associates, or even our family members. The fact remains that we often sin when we listen to the wrong voice(s) in our lives.
Several years ago, a young minister was called to be the pastor of a rather large church. He was asked how he thought that he, a young man with little experience, would be able to please so many men and women. He replied, “I am not going there to please one thousand people, but to please One.” We all tend to want to please those around us, especially the people we love and respect.
Jesus talked about peer pressure in the greatest sermon ever preached. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus gives us the key to happiness on earth when He said, “Seek you first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matt. 6:33). When we put these words into our daily lives, in every situation of life, we honor God and live life on earth to its fullest.
Peer pressure will come and go in our lives. It may have been a long time since you felt peer pressure. Be prepared. The next time that you feel compelled by others to do something you know is not right may be just around the corner. In our moment of need, we need to pray to the Lord Jesus and ask Him to give us strength to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Our help is only a prayer away.
Yep, we all experience peer pressure. The result of the peer pressure is determined by our commitment to Christ or to other people. Stay focused on Christ!
