Have you ever felt like other kids were pressuring you, sometimes with teasing, unkind words or even violence, to do what they want you to? To dress like them… go where they want… do what they do… even to do things that you know are wrong? That is called peer pressure. The Bible has lots to say about it. Let’s take a look.

Peer pressure often leads to bad decision making. Look in Matthew 14:9, TLB, for an example of this. "The king was grieved, but because of his oath, and because he didn’t want to back down in front of his guests, he issued the necessary orders."

Don’t allow yourself to be pressured by other kids -- be honest and think for yourself. God gives instruction in Exodus 23:2-3, TLB. "Don’t join mobs intent on evil. When on the witness stand, don’t be swayed in your testimony by the mood of the majority present, and do not slant your testimony in favor of a man just because he is poor." Even though this is referring to being a witness in court, it is the same in any situation.

Caving in to peer pressure can lead to tragic consequences. It happened at the trial of Jesus. Look in Luke 23:23-24, TLB. "But they shouted louder and louder for Jesus’ death, and their voices prevailed. So Pilate sentenced Jesus to die as they demanded."

So what do I do when I feel pressured? You’ll find the answer in Proverbs 4:14-16, TLB. "Don’t do as the wicked do. Avoid their haunts -- turn away, go somewhere else, for evil men can’t sleep until they’ve done their evil deed for the day. They can’t rest unless they cause someone to stumble and fall."

Is there any other advise from the Bible? Yes, there is! Be firm as you stand true to God and refuse to compromise. You’ll find this good advice in 2 Corinthians 6:8, TLB. "We stand true to the Lord whether others honor us or despise us, whether they criticize us or commend us. We are honest, but they call us liars."