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Peer pressure can be a "big deal" in teenagers lives but it doesn't have to be and it shouldn't! Believe it – it is the absolute truth! During this time in your life the pressure from your peers to conform to their standards or style is the most intense. This is primarily because you are seeking your own self-identity as you are emerging from under the umbrella of your family. Hey! Re-read that statement! You are seeking your OWN self-identity... ummm… keep that in mind.

Acceptance into a circle of friends is very important to some teens. It is at this point that the foundation of your moral character and convictions will be tested. Peer pressure by definition means: an urgent claim or demand from others without concern of your personal integrity or convictions. Since this is a time of seeking your own identity, start with the absolute facts:

You’re Valued

You have individual value and worth to God, your Creator. As the modern saying goes: God does not make junk – never has, never will. Everyone is unique... and uniqueness the one of the best attributes of life. No one can do what you can do – no one can have the impact you can have on someone else's life – just by being who GOD wants you to be. He designed you to be special and to stand out from the crowd.

God Is Working

View this time of personal pressure that enables a point in time that will never again be repeated that recognizes God, Almighty, working in your life and making you stronger in matters that really do matter! The peers around you that you feel pressure from are the very people God has placed around you – not to conform you to their image – but for you to be a standing witness of a true person serving the Lord. Chasing the elusive approval of "friends" is a horrible, never-ending circle which you must never partake of. Imagine the reality of standing before the throne of God at the beginning of eternity with Him and He says to you: "I received glory because of the choices you made as a teenager." Whew! It doesn't get any better than that.

Heavenly Point Of View

Continually have a Heavenly Point of View! Peer pressure will not last forever – believe it – it will end quickly; however, eternity does last forever! Your choices – your outward behavior and inward thoughts – must be based upon the commandments of the Word of God to live a holy life. Jesus and His love, power, and concern for you is the same today and always. He is the Friend who you should spend the most time with and whose opinion you must seek and take to heart. The earthly friends worth having are those who love you, want to know who you really are, encourages you in your daily walk with God, Your Creator.