What is the way to get rid of the desire to outdo old friends and prove one's worth after feeling inadequate, and what is the ruling on the religiosity of someone who fears abandoning it due to the fear of being abandoned by committed friends?

We advise you to adhere to obedience to Allah and to keep company with righteous people. Do not abandon good deeds due to an intention tainted with showing off (riya'). Rather, strive for sincerity and treat yourself by studying books of encouragement and deterrence. This will help you see the promise of good things and the warning against bad deeds, and what Allah has promised the believing, pious person: elevation, eminence, salvation, and success in both worlds. Through this, your intention will become pure, and you will be sincere to Allah.