As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been. 1 Kings 11:4

People who become very great at something, such as a sport, are very focused and dedicated to that one thing. They do not allow others to distract them or pull them away from it. Very few people can remain that focused very long when they are among people with a different view.

Peer pressure changes the views of most people. The stronger the pressure the faster people will change. Whole nations have changed views due to the pressure placed upon the people through various sorts of media.

Solomon had chosen to love and be married to many wives of other nations that follow false gods. Over time he turned his heart after those false gods because he was not fully dedicated to God alone.

The influence of those around a person can be very strong, pulling a person away from what he believes in. People are very quick to take on the character and desires that those they are among. Occasionally it is for the better, but most often it is for the worse.

Peer pressure wears away at the character of a person in the same way that water slowly erodes away the dirt and rock, creating a ravine. It can cause a person to begin to doubt God and turn to false gods.

Solid devotion to God will keep a believer focused on his goal no matter what others do or choose and not be led astray to follow false gods. He will be the one to influence others for God rather than being influenced by others for false gods.

Regardless of where you live there will be some people who are trying to lead you away from God into sin and following false gods. The world wants you to worship and serve things, positions, power and other false gods rather worshipping and serving the one true God.

Dedicate your whole life to God and do not allow yourself to be led astray into following the false gods of this world. Seek to know God more and more each day through His word and prayer. Keep yourself open to hearing the leading of the Holy Spirit so that you do not get led astray.

Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Lord and Savior; that you will dedicate your life to serving God alone; that God will strengthen you to keep you from being led astray; and that you will influence others to serve God.