As Emily explained how her friends had convinced her to go to the party against her better judgment, Kristie remembered back to the previous week when her own friends had invited her to go to a movie that she had already decided not to see based on its rating and reviews. She declined the invitation, but it was difficult. “I know how you felt,” Kristie said. “Let’s think about what you might do differently the next time you encounter a similar situation.”

The mother and daughter talked about the pressures and consequences of following others. When Emily left for soccer practice, they weren’t in agreement on every issue, but Kristie felt like God had guided her to say what was needed. She prayed for her daughter and confidently trusted Him to do the rest.

Teens long for the approval and companionship of their friends. And just like in adult friendships, peers can frequently encourage them to take wrong paths and make faulty decisions.

We all struggle with peer pressure, but our children often lack the wisdom and maturity to navigate it successfully. You can help them steer clear of unhealthy pressure by building their confidence in their own decisions, especially when going against the crowd. Ask God to help you set a good example of standing firm on biblical precepts when it isn’t culturally cool. Then ask Him to guide you as you help equip your children to fight their battles with peer pressure.