Yes, it’s hard to follow Jesus when we’re surrounded by people who ignore Him and make fun of us for being Christians. Not only do they pressure us to give in to temptation, but it can be very lonely when they make fun of us or turn their backs on us.

But listen: You are never completely alone if you know Jesus. When we come to Christ, He not only forgives us of all our sins but He comes to live within us by His Holy Spirit. And because He lives within you, He is with you every moment of the day – even in the midst of your prison cell. The Bible’s promise is true: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Learn to turn to Him every day through prayer and the study of His Word, the Bible.

Then pray – steadily and frequently – for those around you who need Christ. Many of them are dealing with deep issues in their lives (even if they won’t admit it) – feelings of guilt, failure, fear of the future, rejection, and so forth. Ask God to make them open to Christ, and to help you reach out to them with Christ’s love.

Finally, ask God to help you find others who know Christ. You need them – and they need you. Jesus said, “Where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20).