Peer pressure is alive and kicking. We all like to fit in with others, it seems, for some of us even to the point of vying for the best, the top, the most acceptable. Such a lifestyle of "following the leader” can become unfulfilling, however, and perhaps even dangerous.
Eternal Perspectives By Sally Bair
Whom Shall I Please?
Peer pressure during my high school days demanded that I follow the ideas of other teens, even when I didn’t agree. That meant that when our cafeteria served a lentil dish for lunch, I turned up my nose with the others at such a repugnant meal. Our complaints included the color, texture, and taste of lentils. I enjoyed the lentil dish and still do. But back then the
approval of my schoolmates was more important than the truth. Peer pressure among teens is as powerful as ever. In my school days, it came in the form of what clothes to wear or how to fix our hair and other innocent behaviors. Back then, smoking, drinking, drugs, and sex were highly avoided—peer pressure in reverse of today’s teen society.
Unfortunately, many adults also seek popularity and the approval of others, even at the expense and harm of others. Owning the newest electronic devices and techno-toys is desired by young and old alike, all for the sake of social acceptance. So is the desire to compete in studies, sports, and nearly everything else. “Follow the crowd” seems to be a prevalent rationale for many. “Everyone does it” is a common excuse for the behavior of teens and adults alike. Or, “I’m not hurting anyone.” “Shouldn’t I be popular?” … “better?” … “richer?”
The problem with constantly seeking approval from others is that once we reach our goal, we must reach yet another level to keep our popularity, to keep from being rejected by someone else.
Jesus sought only the approval of His Father. Paul sought to please Jesus Christ alone. Both were single-minded in their mission. Neither sought popularity, acceptance, or even safety. All that mattered to them was that God’s message of love, forgiveness, and righteous judgment would be taught at all costs.
Hebrews 11:6 says that without faith it is impossible to please God. If we truly wish to please God alone, we must believe in, preach, teach, and live the Gospel of Christ. What does that get us, besides the risk of unpopularity? It gets us the fulfilling assurance, now and eternally, of God’s acceptance of us. We can’t beat that. “…if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accused. For do I now persuade men or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.” (Galatians 1:9-10)
Lord, help us remember that the acceptance of man is fleeting and of no eternal value. Help us to please You above all else today—in our worship and obedience and praise. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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