Questions & Answers

Some of my friends aren’t good influences. Can we still be friends?

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Share Good Things

If they are my friends, it is my duty to help them to be better, to share the gospel and all the blessings I have received by living it. If they don’t show interest in those good things, I may start to lose them little by little. Even though it is hard, sometimes that is the best thing to do.

Matheus T., 16, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Speak without Fear

My friends know that I belong to the Church. We talked about what is right to do and what is not. Now when my friend is with me, he behaves in an exemplary way, and that makes me happy. This taught me that I should speak without fear.

Diego R., 16, Mexico City, Mexico

Be a Better Influence

I have friends who are not good influences, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t speak to them. I treat them with respect and kindness. I do not judge or criticize them. I know that friends can influence our way of thinking and acting and can even determine the person we will become. Whenever I can, I share the gospel with them and invite them to Church activities.

Saireth V., 18, Morelos, Mexico

Put God First

Do not be discouraged if your friends do not accept your good example. You should not have to lower your standards or set aside your beliefs for others; we live to please Heavenly Father, not anyone else. Pray and search the scriptures for guidance, listen to the Holy Ghost’s promptings, and most importantly, do not let worldly things cause you to stray away from the strait and narrow path.

Riley E., 15, Manila, Philippines

Stand in Holy Places

I have learned from my Church leaders that we have to stand in holy places, even if we are the only ones. Continue living the standards set in your life and in your heart. Try inviting them to a lesson or sacrament meeting. You can carry the light of the gospel everywhere you go! And above all, show the Savior’s love for each of them.

Allanis O., 18, Setúbal, Portugal

Responses are intended for help and perspective, not as official pronouncements of Church doctrine.

“Set a standard for the rest of the world! Embrace being different! The booklet entitled For the Strength of Youth should be your standard. It is the standard that the Lord expects all His youth to uphold.”

President Russell M. Nelson, “Hope of Israel” (worldwide youth devotional, June 3, 2018), 16, HopeofIsrael.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

What Do You Think?

How can I have the courage to follow through with spiritual promptings?

Submit your answer by January 15, 2021.Go to newera.ChurchofJesusChrist.org, click “Submit Your Work.” Sign in with your Church Account and then select “New Era” under “Choose Magazine.” Click “Add File” to select your file and photos, and then click “Submit” to upload and send us your file. Or send an email to [e-mail].

Responses may be edited for length or clarity.