Avoid Negative Influence

If we want to avoid unwholesome peer pressure, we must resist the influence of 'those who walk in accord with the flesh.' (Romans 8:4, 5; 1John 2:15-17) Otherwise, hurtful peer pressure will steer us away from Jehovah and his wise counsel. Proverbs 13:20 says: " He that is walking in with wise persons will become wise, but he that is having dealings with the stupid ones will fare badly." Can you think of someone who fared badly because of unwholesome peer pressure? Some Christians, for example, have been led into materialism, immorality, or drug and alcohol abuse because of the influence on their peers.

Even within the Christian congregation, we can come under the influence of unwholesome peer pressure if we choose spiritually weak individuals as our close associates. (1Corinthians 15:33; 2Thessalonians 3:14) Such ones often are not inclined to discuss spiritual matters; they may even ridicule those who enjoy such discussions. If we choose these ones as our close associates, peer pressure may force us into a similar mold, and soon we might find our thinking and attitude reflecting theirs. We may even begin to think negatively of those who are genuine in their faith and who are trying to make spiritual advancement. - 1Timothy 4:15.

How much wiser it is to cultivate friendships with those who strive to please Jehovah, who delight in spiritual matters! Such associates will help us reflect "the wisdom from above." It "is first of all chaste, then peaceable, reasonable, ready to obey, full of mercy and good fruits, . . . Not hypocritical." (James 3:17) This does not mean that spiritual-minded people are incapable of talking about anything but spiritual matters. On the contrary! Just think of the variety of interesting subjects that are considered in Watch Tower publications like the Awake! magazine. Wholesome topics for discussion are truly endless, and by taking an interest in a broad range of subjects, we reflect a love of life and of Jehovah's handiwork.

Just as a good tennis player improves his game by playing with other good players, the right associates elevate us mentally, emotionally and spiritually. On the other hand, the wrong associates can lead us into a course of hypocrisy by encouraging us to lead a double life. How much better it is to enjoy a clean conscience along with self-respect!

Next time: Some Who Benefited