S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Why do we face peer pressure? The Bible clearly tells us that we should not expect our lives to look like the lives of other people (unbelievers) in this world. As Christians, we are aliens and str...

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July 01 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

How can I overcome peer pressure?

To overcome peer pressure, trust your values, practice saying "no" confidently, and find friends who share your beliefs, while also learning to suggest alternatives or leave uncomfortable situations; planning responses and talking to trusted adults are key strategies to stay true to yourself.

Say "No" with Confidence: A firm, direct "no thanks" or "not for me" is often the most effective way to say no. You do not owe anyone a detailed explanation for your choices.

Use a Pre-planned Excuse: If a direct "no" feels too difficult, have a "backup" reason ready. For example, "I have to be home early tonight" or "I'm on medication that doesn't mix with that".

Use Humour: Deflect the pressure by making a joke. This can lighten the mood and signal that you won't take the bait.

The "Escape Plan": Set up a secret code with a parent or trusted friend. If you text a specific emoji or word, they can call you with a "family emergency" so you can leave the situation gracefully. 

Know Your Values: Take time to identify what matters to you (e.g., your health, school grades, or personal integrity). Knowing your "why" makes it easier to stand firm when challenged.

Trust Your Gut: If a situation feels "off" or makes you uncomfortable, listen to that instinct. You are the best judge of your own safety and comfort.

Ask About Consequences: If someone is pressuring you to do something risky, ask out loud, "What happens if we get caught?" Pointing out potential adverse outcomes can make others reconsider.

Choose Your Circle Wisely: Surround yourself with people who share your values and respect your boundaries. Real friends will not force you to do things that make you uncomfortable.

Find an Ally: It is much easier to say "no" when you aren't the only one. Identify at least one other person in the group who feels the same way so that you can support each other.

Help Others: If you see someone else being pressured, stand up for them. Saying "They already said no" helps both of you resist the group dynamic. 

Be guided by God's thinking, not by that of family or friends who do not respect Scriptural principles.

The Bible reassures us that even men and women of outstanding faith have hesitated to speak to people about God. For example, young Jeremiah knew that he would face ridicule and persecution if he obeyed God's command to speak out. 

Another powerful weapon against negative peer pressure is positive peer pressure. If you choose your friends wisely, they can help you cling to reasonable goals and proper standards. 

How can we choose well? Keep this counsel in mind:
Proverbs 13:20 ESV - "Walk with wise men, and thou shalt be wise; But the companion of fools shall smart for it."

If you build your confidence in God, seek guidance from mature Christians, and choose your friends wisely, you can meet the challenge of peer pressure. 

There is no minimising the influence​—for good or for bad—​that our associates can have on us. So often, people do what they have no intention of doing​—all because of peer pressure or, as many say, because they fell into bad company, with disastrous results. In Bible language, "stupid ones" refers not to those who lack intelligence but to those who ignore the wise counsel from God's Word. Young or old, if we do not choose our friends and associates wisely, that is, by the reasonable standards of the Bible, we can expect that we will "fare badly."

9 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report