I was out on Monday night with Nick Duffy praying and chatting with new students outside Owen's Park. We were watching big groups of students head off into town with many already looking totally smashed. We thought statistically out of some of the groups emerging they'll be some Christians, and we were right, there were! We felt they were going off like lambs to the slaugher! Its great to go out with your new flat/course mates but the big question is: are they ready to face the pressures?
It took me a good year or so after becoming a Christian at uni before I was secure enough to say to the crowd when in a bar "I've had enough thanks" - the peer pressure is massive. I know its tough for students, particular guys, but there is truth in 1 John 4:4 "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."
We're children of God, we have Christ in us, He is greater than any force looking to test us. We can be secure in our identity as loved and accepted in Him, no pressure outside can squeeze us into a world indulging in selfish pursuit. We are different! I want to live differently this year, go deeper in God, discover more of who God says I am. Jesus went to the slaughter, freeing us from guilt, condemnation and shame, providing a new start to enjoy every day. There is power to be free from any force shaping us away from our identity in Christ. He who is in you, is greater than the one in the world.
The calm after the storm of a big night for students in Fallowfield.