Well yesterday was my first day to school back from my christmas break, I heard what everyone did over the break. And I knew some of my friends went to party's and drank and some even smoked but I was never even tempted to join them and found it much easier just to skip those kind of hang outs. But from what I have heard over the past two days it seems everyone was out drinking almost every night, and to my suprise they were also doing drugs. And I will NOT allow my self to be around this kind of thing because it is sinful and I just can't stand to see my friends, the people I have grown up with the past 16 yrs, act like that! I don't want to stop hanging out with them because they are all my friends and the only people I hang out with but its got to the point that this is the only kind of thing they do so that gives me little time to hang with them. I don't want to just drop them all as friends completely but if this continues I don't see anyother option. Now the obvious answer would seem to me was go to my church and find kids my age their to hang out with but all my friends that have this sinful behavior go to church every week so they ARE the kids at church. So I don't really know what I need but I just need prayer! And if anyone has any advice I would greatly appreciate it! ~follower
I'm very confused
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I made the first post earlier while I was at school, and later today I found out that they have ALL been doing drugs for a while now, and its not really anything new.
I just wanted to say that I'm proud of you for choosing to turn your back on that kind of lifestyle by not hanging out with them as much to lessen temptation(perhaps). At your age it's a tough time because there are lots of presures associated with peers like sex before marriage, things like drugs/alcohol etc. Keep strong! And pray for your friends, and I will too.(and you!) I believe if you ask God to help you through this, he will, by handing it all over to him so to speak.
(FollowChrist;30167)
I just wanted to say that I'm proud of you for choosing to turning your back on that kind of lifestyle by not hanging out with them as much to lessen temptation(perhaps). At your age it's a tough time because there are lots of presures associated with peers like sex before marriage, things like drugs/alcohol etc. Keep strong! And pray for your friends, and I will too.(and you!)
Turning it down isn't that hard for me, my stepmom was an alchoholic and her addiction almost ended my life too many times for me to fall into the same trap. And I didn't even mention that quite a few of them have already had sex as well as the drinking and drugs. It just seems that there is no one around me that I can turn to or totally trust. Before this break there were a few people who I thought were like me with the same morals and beliefs. But on our first day back I hear straight from their mouths the *wild* times they had over the break and that is really what broke me, they were really what I was leaning on. Don't get me wrong, I entrust my life to christ but they were my last real friends that weren't acting this way. I guess I am being kind of selfish about all this though, all I have been thinking about is how what they're doing is affecting me. Instead i should be thinking about how to help them stop, I have kind of lost hope in this area though, I have been trying to get them to stop for so long (some have been doing this since middle school) and every attempt has failed...I just don't know what to do anymore
:
I just wanted to say that I'm proud of you for choosing to turning your back on that kind of lifestyle by not hanging out with them as much to lessen temptation(perhaps). At your age it's a tough time because there are lots of presures associated with peers like sex before marriage, things like drugs/alcohol etc. Keep strong! And pray for your friends, and I will too.(and you!)
Turning it down isn't that hard for me, my stepmom was an alchoholic and her addiction almost ended my life too many times for me to fall into the same trap. And I didn't even mention that quite a few of them have already had sex as well as the drinking and drugs. It just seems that there is no one around me that I can turn to or totally trust. Before this break there were a few people who I thought were like me with the same morals and beliefs. But on our first day back I hear straight from their mouths the *wild* times they had over the break and that is really what broke me, they were really what I was leaning on. Don't get me wrong, I entrust my life to christ but they were my last real friends that weren't acting this way. I guess I am being kind of selfish about all this though, all I have been thinking about is how what they're doing is affecting me. Instead i should be thinking about how to help them stop, I have kind of lost hope in this area though, I have been trying to get them to stop for so long (some have been doing this since middle school) and every attempt has failed...I just don't know what to do anymore
:(followerofchrist;30174)
I have been trying to get them to stop for so long (some have been doing this since middle school) and every attempt has failed...I just don't know what to do anymore:
Out of curiosity, what have you tried doing to influence them to stop? If you think you've tried it all, then hand it over to God. It's very difficult to change others if they themselves don't want to change. You can help, but they have to have thier own desire, own reasons to change and it seems as if they don't want to.
I have been trying to get them to stop for so long (some have been doing this since middle school) and every attempt has failed...I just don't know what to do anymore
:Out of curiosity, what have you tried doing to influence them to stop? If you think you've tried it all, then hand it over to God. It's very difficult to change others if they themselves don't want to change. You can help, but they have to have thier own desire, own reasons to change and it seems as if they don't want to.
(FollowChrist;30179)
Out of curiosity, what have you tried doing to influence them to stop? If you think you've tried it all, then hand it over to God. It's very difficult to change others if they themselves don't want to change. You can help, but they have to have thier own desire, own reasons to change and it seems as if they don't want to.
I have talked with them about my personal experiences, showed them my numerous scars which I recieved from numerous wrecks with a drunk driver involved, mainly I show them the scar on my back, I have on from my left shoulder to my right hip). Talked with them about how dangerous it is, even though they already know the dangers they still refuse to listen. And I have prayed for them but they just don't want it. And what really gets me more angry then anything is that they go get drunk and do drugs saturday night and then go to church sunday morning and talk about what they can remember during the sermon!
Out of curiosity, what have you tried doing to influence them to stop? If you think you've tried it all, then hand it over to God. It's very difficult to change others if they themselves don't want to change. You can help, but they have to have thier own desire, own reasons to change and it seems as if they don't want to.
I have talked with them about my personal experiences, showed them my numerous scars which I recieved from numerous wrecks with a drunk driver involved, mainly I show them the scar on my back, I have on from my left shoulder to my right hip). Talked with them about how dangerous it is, even though they already know the dangers they still refuse to listen. And I have prayed for them but they just don't want it. And what really gets me more angry then anything is that they go get drunk and do drugs saturday night and then go to church sunday morning and talk about what they can remember during the sermon!
(followerofchrist;30182)
I have talked with them about my personal experiences, showed them my numerous scars which I recieved from numerous wrecks with a drunk driver involved, mainly I show them the scar on my back, I have on from my left shoulder to my right hip). Talked with them about how dangerous it is, even though they already know the dangers they still refuse to listen. And I have prayed for them but they just don't want it. And what really gets me more angry then anything is that they go get drunk and do drugs saturday night and then go to church sunday morning and talk about what they can remember during the sermon!
That's completely sad. All I can say is...keep praying for them, even though they are not following Christ. Maybe I should pray for them too. Is it possible for you to give us their first name?JagLovest thou in Christ Yahshua, Lord and Saviour of the world.
I have talked with them about my personal experiences, showed them my numerous scars which I recieved from numerous wrecks with a drunk driver involved, mainly I show them the scar on my back, I have on from my left shoulder to my right hip). Talked with them about how dangerous it is, even though they already know the dangers they still refuse to listen. And I have prayed for them but they just don't want it. And what really gets me more angry then anything is that they go get drunk and do drugs saturday night and then go to church sunday morning and talk about what they can remember during the sermon!
That's completely sad. All I can say is...keep praying for them, even though they are not following Christ. Maybe I should pray for them too. Is it possible for you to give us their first name?JagLovest thou in Christ Yahshua, Lord and Saviour of the world.
(followerofchrist;30182)
I have talked with them about my personal experiences, showed them my numerous scars which I recieved from numerous wrecks with a drunk driver involved, mainly I show them the scar on my back, I have on from my left shoulder to my right hip). Talked with them about how dangerous it is, even though they already know the dangers they still refuse to listen. And I have prayed for them but they just don't want it. And what really gets me more angry then anything is that they go get drunk and do drugs saturday night and then go to church sunday morning and talk about what they can remember during the sermon!
I pray that Jesus takes the frustration out of you, and I also pray that your friends see the light and know that this behavior is inconsistent with God's commandments and God's word. Please try not to let this concern you too much or bring you down, unfortunately, this kind of behavior is prevalent amoung kids your age group. About those close friends that you thought were like you, awww,
I don't know hon, just keep going on with your walk with Christ (I'm sure you are/will)and ask him to release the frustration that you are carrying.
I have talked with them about my personal experiences, showed them my numerous scars which I recieved from numerous wrecks with a drunk driver involved, mainly I show them the scar on my back, I have on from my left shoulder to my right hip). Talked with them about how dangerous it is, even though they already know the dangers they still refuse to listen. And I have prayed for them but they just don't want it. And what really gets me more angry then anything is that they go get drunk and do drugs saturday night and then go to church sunday morning and talk about what they can remember during the sermon!
I pray that Jesus takes the frustration out of you, and I also pray that your friends see the light and know that this behavior is inconsistent with God's commandments and God's word. Please try not to let this concern you too much or bring you down, unfortunately, this kind of behavior is prevalent amoung kids your age group. About those close friends that you thought were like you, awww,
I will have to go get my school directory b/c my grade consist of about 50 people and about 30+ of them are doing this
I know how common the behavior is among my age group but I thought/hoped their would be atleast a few kids who shared my belief's and morals. And they're are some that don't do this stuff but ironically they are openly non-christian and refuse to discuss christianity with me. There are only 2 other REAL christians in my grade and we hang out but we are alot different and don't really click.
(followerofchrist;30187)
And they're are some that don't do this stuff but ironically they are openly non-christian and refuse to discuss christianity with me.
Can't you still be their friend even though they don't follow Christianity? Yes discussing your beliefs and talking about religion with other friends can be important(although you have the forums;)) I understand, but there are other things ya'll can do together as friends.
There are only 2 other REAL christians in my grade and we hang out but we are alot different and don't really click.
What do you mean by "don't really click?"
And they're are some that don't do this stuff but ironically they are openly non-christian and refuse to discuss christianity with me.
Can't you still be their friend even though they don't follow Christianity? Yes discussing your beliefs and talking about religion with other friends can be important(although you have the forums;)) I understand, but there are other things ya'll can do together as friends.
There are only 2 other REAL christians in my grade and we hang out but we are alot different and don't really click.
What do you mean by "don't really click?"
I agree with you, just b/c they aren't christian doesn't mean I can't hang out with them. But even though they don't drink or do drugs. They take full advantage of not having to worry about sinning (they're athiest by the way), they cuss and take gods name in vain, talk about ppl behind they're back. They still have many sinful habits its just that they're habits are more common in every day situations.And by not clicking I mean christianity is about all we have in common, other than that we are totally different types of people with completely different hobbies and interests.
(followerofchrist;30195)
I agree with you, just b/c they aren't christian doesn't mean I can't hang out with them. But even though they don't drink or do drugs. They take full advantage of not having to worry about sinning (they're athiest by the way), they cuss and take gods name in vain, talk about ppl behind they're back. They still have many sinful habits its just that they're habits are more common in every day situations.And by not clicking I mean christianity is about all we have in common, other than that we are totally different types of people with completely different hobbies and interests.
I'm not going to ask you anymore questions but I have to say that it is a screwed up world we live(well there are some good things about our world, I'm not THAT pessimistic) in unfortunately and I guess all we can do is pray. I believe there will come a time when they will be saved, the question is, when? I pray that it will happen soon.
I agree with you, just b/c they aren't christian doesn't mean I can't hang out with them. But even though they don't drink or do drugs. They take full advantage of not having to worry about sinning (they're athiest by the way), they cuss and take gods name in vain, talk about ppl behind they're back. They still have many sinful habits its just that they're habits are more common in every day situations.And by not clicking I mean christianity is about all we have in common, other than that we are totally different types of people with completely different hobbies and interests.
I'm not going to ask you anymore questions
but I have to say that it is a screwed up world we live(well there are some good things about our world, I'm not THAT pessimistic) in unfortunately and I guess all we can do is pray. I believe there will come a time when they will be saved, the question is, when? I pray that it will happen soon.Followerofchrist there is so much you can do for these friends. Being a former drug addict myself I know first hand these friends need you more then everJesus came to save them he came out of love for them and has put this same love in you for them do not give up hope for them. Remember satan wants to steal, kill, and destroy them this alone should make you rightiously angry just do not sin. You have made a wise, holy and strategic move in the first step of this battle and that is to rally the saints of God to pray for this younger generation. Next I suggest a ralling of the church. Go to the paster and Youth paster and inform them of this situation as satan is trying to establish a strong hold in this congration. Your pastors may or may not be aware of the severity. Ask what you can do to assist this may be a step toward a calling God has placed on you. I will pray for them as I have teenagers myself and know the pressures that they, your friends and you face on a daily basis. I pray that God puts a hedge of protection about you and your mind God Bless.
Thanks guys for your help! It actually helped alot for me to just get all this off my chest. And dgc, we actually go to a christian school so we have a minister here at the school. And I have considered going to him but he is actually good friends with most of them and it just seems like nothing gets through to them! They go to a christian school, they go to church, we have a bible study they could come to! It just seems that they already know the consequences of what they are doing and they are ok with the consequences. I don't plan on giving up though, even though they obviously don't want help I am going to keep giving it. Hopefully God will work through me and I will be able to influence them and bring them back to the right path.
hello FollowerofChrist Actually the funny thing is that I wanted to say a million things when I read your story the first time but now it seems that I can't find the right words. I'm so glad that you aren't doing those things. I hope you will influence them and I pray God will be with you all the way and that he will give you strength especially when you need it. It is sad that all of this is happening at a christian school. I also have a lot of christian friends who do not try to live the way God intended but I do believe that because they do believe him that they will be saved. When you say you are a believer once, Jezus will not let go.Father, Friend, Lord, our Saviour I want to thank you that you died for us on the cross and that when you died, sin died with you. I want to thank you for you mean so much in our lives and that you also changed so much in our lives. This time I want to ask you, father can you help our fellow breathren who are doing sinfull things without wanting to change it, or when they don't see that they're doing wrong. Can you tell them clearly that you long for them to be by your side more closely. That you want to teach them right from wrong and that you want to guide them the rest of their lives. Can you show them how much they need you and could you show them again how much you love them. Please let them fully understand that you don't want them to suffer and that, though it seems wonderful it is not. I want to thank you father for followerofchrist that he is your child and that he wants to get close to you and bring others in your glory. Amen
I am really feeling the pain and frustration in your words. How many times have I been in this same situation-even as an adult? I feel that hypocrisy is one of the biggest problems in our churches and with Christianity in general today. I grew up in church, but always felt like the "odd man out" because I was serious about serving the Lord. Out of a small youth group, most of them could have cared less. When I rededicated my life at age 18 and moved on to college, I found the same thing to be true. I can happily say that the Lord has given me a few good friends that believe like I do and that are very serious about integrity. It is so important to be who we say that we are-even when no one is looking. God will honor that in you. I will pray and you keep praying for those Godly friends that have that integrity and desire for spiritual growth. If you can't find them at the church you are presently attending, you may need to check around at some more on-fire youth groups. Be sure you have adult Christian mentors who can pick you up when you're feeling down. A pastor, a Sunday School teacher, a youth director, or anyone you know is the real deal. Stay in your Bible. Don't ever think you can do without it. We must know God's words and hide them in our hearts. How can we trust Him and love Him if we don't even know Him? I get up at 5 each morning and have a quiet time because this starts my day off better. I can't make it without him. There is too much evil in the world, but I have the thougths I read each morning to sustain me. You have brothers and sisters that care. I'm so glad you asked us to help you bear the load you have. Keep us posted!
I know what you mean about relying on the bible, I take atleast one to school with me everyday to read when I have spare time. And I think I have an opening to help one of the people at my school. Last night I was watching TV and suddenly had a very strong feeling to pray for one of the girls at my school, and I don't think anything was immediatley wrong, but I have always been a little closer to her than most of the others that have this lifestyle. I think God is opening a new door for me that will allow me to help her. I just hope I am up to it.
Well, there you go. The Lord saved you to fulfill a special purpose in your life and others' lives. He is already speaking to you and guiding you to be strong for Him. Now, commit to memory some verses like Philippians 4:13, "I can do ALL things through Christ who is my strengh." I love Ephesians 3:20: "Now the power of work that is within us is able to do far over and above, superabundantly more than we could ask or think." God told Joshua to be strong and courageous. He didn't tell him that because he was, but because he needed to be. Did you know that there are about 365 "Fear nots" in the Bible? That's one for every day of the year! It is the most often repeated command in scripture. So, you have a BIG God that can do great things with you and what's more is, He wants to! Check out sharejesuswithoutfear.com site for a great testimony of how to share Christ and how far down the guy was that wrote the study. He said he never forgot the face of anyone who told him about Christ, no matter how bad he treated them. It is really interesting. I'll keep praying. Let me know how it goes with the girl you're thinking about and praying for. Take care and God bless- HBG
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