“They are surprised that you don’t join them in the same flood of wild living-and they slander you.” 1 Peter 4:4

Lord Jesus, There is a lot of pressure from this world to do the wrong thing. There is a lot of pressure to go along with sin and wickedness. I’m tempted to drink too much because everyone else is and they might make fun of me if I don’t. They’ve done it before. I’m tempted to make unethical decisions and to do things that are sinful. Sometimes desperation drives me to it. Sometimes pressure from my boss, from my friends, pushes on me to do the wrong thing. And they’re surprised. They’re surprised that I don’t want to go along with sin. Lord God, keep me from giving into their pressure. Keep from giving into the pressure of my own flesh. Give me strength to live for you. I’ve given in to sin enough already. I’ve spent enough time in my past sinning and pleasing my sinful flesh. Forgive me for it and give me strength to live for you. Give me strength and power by your Spirit to do what pleases you. Give me strength to say “no” to sin and “yes” to righteousness. Let them be surprised that I don’t give in. Let them say what they want about me. I am yours! You redeemed me by your blood. Help me to live my life for you and for you alone. Amen.