Walk in Love

Scrolling through social media can sometimes feel like a never-ending buffet of information. While it might seem delightful at first, too much of it can leave us feeling full but unsatisfied. In 1 Corinthians 10:23, Paul reminds us that while we are free to enjoy many things, not everything is beneficial. So, as you scroll through your feeds, consider this: Are you truly feeding your spirit or just your curiosity?

Picture this: you're sitting on your bed, phone in hand, and you start scrolling. Hours pass and you've fallen down a rabbit hole of memes, celebrity news, and TikTok dances. Sound familiar? Just as we can lose track of time, we can also lose track of our spiritual journey. Psalms 119:105 tells us that God’s Word is a lamp for our feet. Instead of getting lost in the scroll, let’s choose to dive into His Word and find true direction!

In your educational environment, you might feel pressure to conform to what others expect from you, leading to feelings of inadequacy. Embrace your identity as a child of God, which gives you inherent worth and purpose. Choose to stand firm in your convictions, whether it’s through how you approach your studies or how you interact with peers. This week, take one step toward sharing your values, perhaps by inviting a classmate to a Christian club or discussing faith openly, trusting that your identity in Christ can inspire others.

As a teen navigating public life, you may feel the temptation to fit in with peers who compromise their values. Your identity as a child of God means you were created for a purpose and called to live differently. When faced with decisions in your social circles, take time to reflect on how your actions align with your faith. This week, when a situation arises that challenges your beliefs – such as peer pressure to engage in negative behavior – pause and pray for wisdom. Choose to represent your faith clearly, even if it feels uncomfortable.

As a high school student, balancing academics and personal life can be overwhelming, often leading to burnout. Remember that your true identity as a child of God is not defined by grades or achievements. Take a moment to assess your commitments and consider cutting back on one extracurricular activity that is draining you. Instead, dedicate that time to rest and grow spiritually. This week, carve out just 15 minutes each day for personal devotion or reflection, allowing God to renew your mind and give you clarity and strength.

Persecution, peer pressure, and preoccupation are three weapons he employs with great effectiveness.

John F. MacArthur

But God cannot ignore sin and will not. He brings pressure upon us, often very acute pressure, until we acknowledge the sin, confess it, and return to him.

James Montgomery Boice

Noah challenges us to withstand peer pressure.

Larry Richards

God’s way of answering His people’s prayers is not by removing the pressure, but by increasing their strength to bear it.

Samuel G. Hardman; Dwight Lyman Moody (Evangelist)