The Running Back Who Couldn't Say No
In the 1970's at the University of North Texas there was a great running back who broke most of the records. He had a lovely wife and child. After completing his senior season he was headed for the NFL draft. He had a very bright future.
Before the draft some of his old friends from back home paid him a visit and invited him to go out to a bar. He didn't want to, but he gave in to peer pressure. At the bar a fight broke out, and they took it outside. When he stepped in to defend his buddies, one man took out a knife, stabbed him in the side, and killed him. His wife became a widow; his child became an orphan. All of his potential was wasted. Why? Because he didn't have the strength to stand up to peer pressure. Do you?
You can have all the potential in the world, but if you can't stand up to peer pressure, then you won't make it very far.
There are 3 keys to overcoming peer pressure.
First, admit that you are vulnerable. The moment you think that you are not susceptible to peer pressure is the moment you will fall. Everyone -- students, men, and women -- is vulnerable.
Second, know the difference between your friends and your mission field. Yes, we are called to mingle with the lost so that we can reach the lost. But don't allow the lost to become your closest friends, because your closest friends will shape your future. Your closest friends must be like-minded, totally committed Christ-followers.
Third, be willing to stand alone. Realize that you will often have to stand alone. There's no way around it. Realize you will be rejected and mocked. You will offend. People will get angry with you. All these things must be expected. Jesus had to stand alone, and He will give you the strength to do the same.
(Inspired by a sermon called "Peer Pressure" by Tommy Nelson.)
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