One of the most interesting phenomena in human nature is peer pressure. It is responsible for more guilt and feelings of failure in young and old alike that we as Christians need to take a very close look at what causes it and how we can overcome it. Peer Pressure is when an individual feels compelled to behave in certain ways due to the implied or perceived will of a group of peers. This pressure to perform is most often seen in little ways in young people: making silly comments to parents in the presence of friends, making hurtful comments to others to get a laugh from those around us. Although these situations are usually thought to be attempts to gain attention to ourselves, it is the beginning of an individual´s desire to please the group.
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Most people who are successful in their work or school at not giving in to peer pressure are often forced to do one of three things: give in to the peer pressure (oops, that wonʼt work), isolate themselves from that pressure, or become a social force in and of themselves. One of the most important benefits of high school Bible clubs and Youth Groups is the group atmosphere and positive peer pressure that is generated. Groups like this are essential to Christian students being successful in …show more content…
The other side of this coin is to isolate yourself. I see a number of teachers who eat lunch in their own rooms, kids who sit quietly in the hall to eat their lunch and small groups begin forming here and there in an effort to protect each other. The problem is, that when it comes right down to it, there is no good way to deal with the issues of peer pressure without dealing with its central subject: who are we trying to please? Whenever our behaviors are intended to please other people, they will. Whenever they are intended to please ourselves, they will. Whenever they are intended to please God, they will. Just not all at the same time. It really is simple; if I please me, others are upset. If I please others, God is upset. Pleasing God means denying all the others. Easier said than done. My heart is willing, but my body is weak. Man shall not live by bread alone, but if the guy next to me brought bread for lunch..., Iʼll probably eat some. The best advice I can give: arm yourself with the Word of God. Memorize scripture to help you in the tough spots. Out of the overflow of your heart, your mouth will
Most people who are successful in their work or school at not giving in to peer pressure are often forced to do one of three things: give in to the peer pressure (oops, that wonʼt work), isolate themselves from that pressure, or become a social force in and of themselves. One of the most important benefits of high school Bible clubs and Youth Groups is the group atmosphere and positive peer pressure that is generated. Groups like this are essential to Christian students being successful in …show more content…
The other side of this coin is to isolate yourself. I see a number of teachers who eat lunch in their own rooms, kids who sit quietly in the hall to eat their lunch and small groups begin forming here and there in an effort to protect each other. The problem is, that when it comes right down to it, there is no good way to deal with the issues of peer pressure without dealing with its central subject: who are we trying to please? Whenever our behaviors are intended to please other people, they will. Whenever they are intended to please ourselves, they will. Whenever they are intended to please God, they will. Just not all at the same time. It really is simple; if I please me, others are upset. If I please others, God is upset. Pleasing God means denying all the others. Easier said than done. My heart is willing, but my body is weak. Man shall not live by bread alone, but if the guy next to me brought bread for lunch..., Iʼll probably eat some. The best advice I can give: arm yourself with the Word of God. Memorize scripture to help you in the tough spots. Out of the overflow of your heart, your mouth will