and posted in Q&A Corner
The friends we choose to hang out with will influence the way we think, what we believe and how we act. We think influence is a better word to use in this context because everyone sins and Christians are not superior to others.
Now, some people will influence us positively while others will influence us negatively. What we think you are asking in your question is how you can avoid being influenced negatively by a certain group at school. Here are a few of our thoughts…
Firstly, spend quality time with God! His presence is always a positive influence in your life. Spend time getting to know him better, give him space to speak into your life and allow his Spirit to transform you. We have found that we are most negatively influenced when we are trying to fit in or when struggling with peer pressure. The best way to change this is to know what God says about you and who he says you are. Knowing this enables you to be yourself and be the person God has created you to be. Why not ask God what he thinks of you?*
Secondly, you need to be honest about your struggles and temptations with people who are positive influences in your life. Hebrews 10:25 says, ‘Let us not give up meeting together… but let us encourage one another.’ We all need encouragement and support as we seek to follow Jesus. Make sure you are regularly contact with people who cause your relationship with God to flourish.
Lastly, you always have a choice whether to participate in something negative or allow it to influence you. Pray for God’s protection when you’re with a group that negatively influence you. Pray also for God to show you ways you can love your friends better and be a positive influence in their lives.
FOOTNOTE:
* Check out our new Father’s Love Letter page which has an overview of what God says about you from the Bible.
