Continue with Tapping Into Wholesome Peer Influence

By choosing the right peers, then, we can control the influence they exert on us. Additionally, the fine spiritual food and practical guidance dispensed at Christian meetings reinforce the personal encouragement we receive from our peers.

Of course, getting to Christian meetings is not always easy. Some may get little or no support from marriage mates, others may have children to get ready, and transportation may be a problem for still others. But think: If you do not allow these obstacles to stop you, then your example may inspire others who may be contending with similar circumstances. In other words, you and others like you provide not just a fine example but also a wholesome form of peer influence - and that without any hint of coercion.

In fact, the apostle Paul, who himself had to contend with many hardships and obstacles, encouraged Christians to imitate his fine example and that of other mature Christians. He said: " "Unitedly become imitators of me, brothers, and keep you eye on those who are walking in a way that accords with the example you have in us." (Philippians 3:17; 4:9) The early Christians in Thessalonica looked to Paul's fine example. Of them Paul wrote: " You became imitators of us and of the Lord, seeing that you accepted the word under much tribulation with joy of holy spirit, so that you came to be an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia." (1Thessalonians 1:6, 7) Our positive attitude and example can have a similar effect on those with whom we associate.

Next time:Avoid Negative Influences