Other People's Influence

Temptation from peer pressure is an issue because each person is subject to the political, spiritual, and social views of others. Yet James 1:15 declares, “It's our own evil desires that we have to monitor and subdue.” God has made it possible, however, for us to resist and overcome evil tendencies with the power he provides.

Outside influences create pressure our conscience and values must contend with when temptation’s cutting edge slices into our everyday life. Even so, we must guard against our own desires teaming up with outside forces to break down our resistance to these enticements.

Yes, vulnerabilities exist, but God makes it possible for us to resist peer pressure and temptation by accepting the escapes he provides. 1 John 4:4’s affirmation is, "You, dear children, belong to God and will defeat these enemies, for greater is he who is in you than he who is in the world." Believe God’s word. It’s powerful.

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Dear friend, if bad companions tempt you, don’t go along with them.

~Proverbs 1:10 The Message

 

Do not go where evil people go. Do not follow the example of the wicked. Don’t do it! Keep away from evil! Refuse it and go on your way.

~Proverbs 4:14-15 Good  News Bible 

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Temptation's Cutting Edge

The cutting edge of temptation plunges deep regardless of a person’s faith, education, or lifestyle. Some blame God for the reality of temptation they must face as well as their failure to escape its demands. Whatever the source of temptation, submitting to its enticement is a choice. Freedom to choose is a privilege but may result in painful consequences.

Someone recently declared, "Wouldn't it be wonderful to go back to college with the wisdom I possess today? Learning is a joy now that I’m not so distracted by youthful temptations.” Those words reflect maturity that has come from the power to resist temptations’ enticements.

When temptation’s cutting edge is pressing in, remember God did not create it but will, in his mercy, provide an escape. Remember these words from James 1:12: "Blessed is the man who endures temptation, for when he has stood the test, he shall receive the crown of life God has for those who love him."

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There isn’t any temptation that you have experienced which is unusual for humans. God, who faithfully keeps his promises, will not allow you to be tempted beyond your power to resist. But when you are tempted, he will also give you the ability to endure the temptation as your way of escape.

~1 Corinthians 10:13 God’s Word Translation

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Hallmarks of Faith

Faith gives life vibrancy like nothing mankind is capable of manufacturing! In fact, faith is indispensable for contending with life’s challenges and grasping opportunities that come to those who venture out to seize what God makes available. God gives each receptive individual faith that can endure whatever life presents.

Where there is struggle and temptation, faith provides a defense as well as an escape from each situation. Where sin abounds God's grace abounds even more. He unleashes his mercy, protection, and provision, which give faith endurance. God’s wisdom is available to those who seek to live within its power.

Faith cannot be separated from God’s undeserved favor and compassion, his grace, which is an attribute of God by which we receive his kindness and mercy. Faith produces compassion that reflects the values God wants his followers to demonstrate to others. Compassion and kindness are the hallmarks of faith.          

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If you believe that Jesus is the Christ – that he is God’s Son and your Savior – then you are a child of God. And all who love the Father love his children, too. So you can find our how much you love God’s children – your brothers and sisters in the Lord – by how much you love and obey God.

~1 John 5:1-2 The Living Bible 

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