Dear Lyfteenites,
Saying “No” and standing true to it without feeling down or guilty is something that often seems difficult to do, especially when you’re surrounded by people, places, and trends that try to influence your choices. As teenagers, you're at a stage in life where the world is opening up before you, and with it, the pressure to fit in and go along with the crowd. But here’s the truth: saying “no” is one of the most powerful tools you can use to stay true to yourself and honour God.
I know what it feels like to be in an environment where everyone else seems to be doing things differently. It's easy to feel left out or like you’re missing out if you choose a different path. When I was in high school, I remember struggling with peer pressure, especially when friends started experimenting with things that I knew didn’t align with my faith. It felt like standing on an island while watching everyone else drift away.
In moments like those, the question that always crossed my mind was: “How do I stay true to myself and my values?” The answer became clearer when I turned to God and His Word. Romans 12:2 (NIV) says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Then you will be able to test and approve God's will, which is good, pleasing, and perfect. This verse became my steadfast anchor. It reminded me that I did not have to follow the crowd because my identity was founded on Christ, not what others thought of me. Also, I remembered listening to an audiobook called "The Power of No" which was written and narrated by James Altucher and Claudia Azula Altucher whenever I had a thought that tempted me to object to my no.
Saying no does not imply that you are rejecting people. Instead, you are embracing who you are in Christ. And, you know what? The more I said "No" to things that did not align with my values, the more secure I felt in my faith. I was not missing out; rather, I was growing closer to God.
Jesus understood the significance of "No." In Matthew 4, when Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, He firmly said "no" to the temptations laid before Him. He did not do it to avoid trouble, but because He understood His identity and purpose. That same power resides within you. When you are tempted to compromise your values or do something you know is wrong, remember that saying "No" is your way of staying true to who God created you to be.
It is okay to feel pressure, but do not let it shape you into someone you are not. Surround yourself with people who share your beliefs and values. Seek out friends who will help you grow in your relationship with Christ. You may not always be the most popular person for saying "No," but you will be the one who is true to yourself and God.
I encourage you to put your trust in God's promises. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) reminds us to "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways, submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." When you rely on God's wisdom and strength, He will lead you, and you will discover that you can say "No" without fear because you are walking with the One who loves you more than anyone else ever could.
So, Lyfteenites, do not be afraid to say "No." It is more than just a word; it expresses who you are and what you believe in. Stand firm in your faith and believe that God has a plan for your life that is far superior to anything this world can provide.
With love and encouragement.
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