Dare to Live: Breakthrough Part 3: Friends, Family and the World

Hey everyone! I'm glad you have joined us today for this very important post! Today is the conclusion of our three part series Breakthrough. So far we have looked at the process of breaking through ourselves, the spiritual myths and fictions of non-biblical Christianity and today we will be discussing how we breakthrough the pressures of everyone else.

One of the most difficult pressures to overcome in life is the pressure of the opinions of everyone else. During our life at home we try to live to standard and expectations of our family, during school  we come face to face with peer pressure from our friends and in the world we want the approval of man. During our final section we will discussing each one of these in detail and how we can overcome these.

Family

First, let's look at the pressure from parents. Although most parents encourage their children to do what they feel is best for them, some choose to turn against those whose opinions differ from theirs. As children we would try to seek the approval of our parents or parent figures. We would do everything they wanted just for the sake of positive acknowledgement. Although there is nothing wrong with this,  there are unfortunately parents who refuse to give any form of positive feedback to their children and instead will find a reason to complain. Now before we go any further let me speak to parents for a moment. Although I myself are not a parent,  I have seen the effects of this in youth while working with them. I have personally known individuals who have gone through this type of life. In every case the individual or child would be angry at their parent(s). In the book of Ephesians, Paul writes, "Fathers,do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." (6:4) This though does not just apply to fathers but, also mothers. Instead you are to bring your children up in the way of God and lead them according to the statutes of the Bible. If your child chooses not to follow the ways of God,  this is their choice.Pray for them and constantly remind them you love them and so does God. You may not approve of the way your child chooses to live their life nor may it be the way you raised them. If you do not approve of their life then do not make them feel horrible about themselves but, remind them they are loved and there is always God's way.

Likewise, children you are commanded to honor your parents not only as a statute for life but, as a commandment from God. Obviously if your parents are demanding you to do something that could put yourself or someone else in danger there are exceptions as well as if they demand you forsake Christ. This is not a get out of jail free card or a reason to use to get out of doing things. It is merely guidelines. So, with this remember that if your family does not agree with your choice to follow Christ, remind them you love them and so does God but, do not let them prevent you from transforming.

Friends and the World

One of the greatest gifts we have been given is the ability to have meaningful relationships with others who are not our family. These people are our friends. Friends are there for you through all things and can be your biggest support but, also your biggest downfall. When you are in school  you're told about peer pressure or the influence your peers will try and have on you. Now one thing we must know is that not all peer pressure is bad. Some can influence us to be a greater person or lead others to Christ. This same pressure though can lead us to fall away for Christ and land us in a pit of despair and shame. The bible says this in Proverbs 27:17: " As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." We are instructed to edify and build one another up. Instead many times we degrade and destroy one another. In order to break through the barrier of your friends, remove yourself from social circles that tear you down and pull you astray. Surround yourself with those who are likeminded and are on the same journey. As someone helps you, you help them.

As for the world remember that you are in the world but, you are not of the world. It will try and tear you away but, remember God is in control of all things and He is greater than the world. So here's the question, are you ready to breakthrough? 

Before we end let me leave you with a dare: Break through the shell of yourself, lay to rest the superstitions and myths of spirituality and most of all do not let anyone or anything stand between you and God. Turn your face to Him who gave you life and be blessed. Give Him your life, breakthrough, be transformed and live.