Relationships can be challenging, and the Bible offers wisdom for navigating them. Today, we’ll look at what Scripture says about bad relationships and God’s plan for healthy connections.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Divine Healing
What Does The Bible Say About Bad Relationships
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
This verse serves as a reminder of the influence that bad relationships can have on our character. It warns against the deception of thinking we can remain unaffected by the company we keep.
As Christians, we are called to surround ourselves with people who will sharpen us and encourage us in our faith. Being in unhealthy relationships can lead us astray and hinder our spiritual growth.
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
This proverb cautions against forming relationships with individuals who have a tendency to be easily angered or hot-tempered. Such people can negatively influence our behavior and lead us into trouble.
By avoiding these types of relationships, we safeguard ourselves from unnecessary conflict and the temptation to adopt negative traits or behaviors.
1 Corinthians 5:11
“But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.”
In this verse, the apostle Paul advises believers to distance themselves from individuals who identify as Christians but engage in immoral behavior. By doing so, we maintain our own moral standards and avoid being influenced by ungodly behavior.
This cautionary verse reminds us to be discerning in our relationships, ensuring that those we associate with share our commitment to living a righteous life.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This proverb emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise and discerning individuals who can offer sound guidance and advice. Walking alongside the wise helps us grow in wisdom ourselves.
On the other hand, associating with foolish companions can lead us down a destructive path, resulting in negative consequences and harm.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
This proverb urges us to steer clear of foolish individuals as they lack wisdom and understanding. Engaging with them will not produce fruitful discussions or provide valuable insights.
Instead, we should seek out wise and knowledgeable companions who can enrich our lives and help us grow in wisdom.
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
In this verse, Paul advises against entering into close partnerships or relationships with unbelievers. The stark differences in values and beliefs between Christians and non-believers can lead to conflict and compromise.
It is essential for believers to prioritize relationships with fellow Christians who share their faith, align in values, and can encourage them to grow spiritually.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This proverb highlights the significance of healthy and uplifting relationships. Just as iron can be sharpened by contact with other iron, we are sharpened and refined through our interactions with wise and godly companions.
Choosing to surround ourselves with individuals who inspire and challenge us helps us become better versions of ourselves and strengthens our faith.
1 Corinthians 5:9-11
“I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people — not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case, you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.”
Paul addresses the importance of discernment in our relationships, urging believers to avoid close association with those who profess to be Christians but live in unrepentant sin. By doing so, we uphold the standards of godliness.
However, we are not meant to isolate ourselves completely from the world; rather, we are called to be salt and light in the midst of darkness while firmly standing for holy living.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This proverb prompts us to be intentional in selecting our friends, emphasizing the importance of surrounding ourselves with righteous and godly individuals. Wisely choosing our companions safeguards us from being led astray down the paths of sin.
By pursuing relationships with those who exemplify righteousness, we encourage spiritual growth and provide mutual support in our faith journeys.
Proverbs 18:24
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
This verse underscores the importance of having trustworthy and dependable friends in our lives. Relying on unreliable companions can lead to disappointment and ultimately ruin.
However, there is great value in developing deep, meaningful friendships where loyalty and support endure through all circumstances, providing comfort and strength.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
Peter reminds us to be watchful and vigilant in our spiritual journey, cautioning against the dangers of being ensnared by the enemy. This admonition should also be extended to the relationships we cultivate.
We must be discerning and ensure that our associations do not expose us to harmful influences or lead us away from God’s path.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This proverb highlights the destructive nature of individuals who promote strife and spread gossip. Such actions can cause division and damage close relationships.
As followers of Christ, we are called to pursue peace and unity in our relationships, avoiding involvement with those who thrive on discord and promote destructive behavior.
Matthew 7:16-20
“By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit, you will recognize them.”
This passage reminds us to discern the character and actions of those around us. The fruit they produce, whether good or bad, is an indication of their true nature.
Through evaluating the fruit of someone’s life, we can discern whether they will be a positive influence and whether we should forge or maintain relationships with them.
Proverbs 24:21-22
“Fear the LORD and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials, for those two will send sudden destruction on them, and who knows what calamities they can bring?”
This verse advises against joining forces with those who rebel against authority, whether it be God or earthly rulers. Such associations can lead to severe consequences and bring about calamity.
It is crucial for us to align ourselves with those who honor and respect authority, promoting harmony, and avoiding unnecessary trouble.
1 Timothy 6:20-21
“Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith. Grace be with you all.”
Paul urges Timothy to protect the truth and teachings of the faith, warning against engaging in godless talk and false knowledge. Encountering and entertaining contrary beliefs can lead to spiritual distraction and even departure from the faith.
Stay committed to sound doctrine and seek relationships with those who also place a high value on biblical truth.
Proverbs 1:10
“My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them.”
This proverb warns against yielding to the influence of sinful individuals who may tempt us to compromise our values and commitments. We are advised to resist their enticements and stand firm in our faith.
Surrounding ourselves with godly companions can provide the support and accountability needed to resist temptation and remain faithful to God.
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
In this passage, Paul reminds us to be cautious and humble, acknowledging our vulnerability to temptation. God, in His faithfulness, promises to provide a way for us to overcome temptation and stand strong.
Surrounding ourselves with supportive relationships can offer encouragement and assistance when we face challenging situations.
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
This proverb cautions against forming relationships with individuals who have a tendency to be easily angered or hot-tempered. Such people can negatively influence our behavior and lead us into trouble.
By avoiding these types of relationships, we safeguard ourselves from unnecessary conflict and the temptation to adopt negative traits or behaviors.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This proverb emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise and discerning individuals who can offer sound guidance and advice. Walking alongside the wise helps us grow in wisdom ourselves.
On the other hand, associating with foolish companions can lead us down a destructive path, resulting in negative consequences and harm.
Ephesians 5:11
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
This verse encourages believers to distance themselves from unfruitful and sinful activities. Instead, we are called to expose darkness and live according to the truth of God’s Word.
Avoiding relationships that lead us towards darkness helps us maintain our commitment to living in alignment with God’s righteousness.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This proverb acknowledges the value of true friendship, even when it involves honest correction or rebuke. The wounds inflicted by a friend who has our best interests at heart can be trusted and promote growth.
In contrast, flattery and empty praise from an enemy may seem pleasant, but they lack genuine care and concern.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
This verse serves as a reminder of the influence that bad relationships can have on our character. It warns against the deception of thinking we can remain unaffected by the company we keep.
As Christians, we are called to surround ourselves with people who will sharpen us and encourage us in our faith. Being in unhealthy relationships can lead us astray and hinder our spiritual growth.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This proverb prompts us to be intentional in selecting our friends, emphasizing the importance of surrounding ourselves with righteous and godly individuals. Wisely choosing our companions safeguards us from being led astray down the paths of sin.
By pursuing relationships with those who exemplify righteousness, we encourage spiritual growth and provide mutual support in our faith journeys.
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
This proverb cautions against forming relationships with individuals who have a tendency to be easily angered or hot-tempered. Such people can negatively influence our behavior and lead us into trouble.
By avoiding these types of relationships, we safeguard ourselves from unnecessary conflict and the temptation to adopt negative traits or behaviors.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This proverb emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise and discerning individuals who can offer sound guidance and advice. Walking alongside the wise helps us grow in wisdom ourselves.
On the other hand, associating with foolish companions can lead us down a destructive path, resulting in negative consequences and harm.
Ephesians 5:11
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
This verse encourages believers to distance themselves from unfruitful and sinful activities. Instead, we are called to expose darkness and live according to the truth of God’s Word.
Avoiding relationships that lead us towards darkness helps us maintain our commitment to living in alignment with God’s righteousness.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This proverb acknowledges the value of true friendship, even when it involves honest correction or rebuke. The wounds inflicted by a friend who has our best interests at heart can be trusted and promote growth.
In contrast, flattery and empty praise from an enemy may seem pleasant, but they lack genuine care and concern.
1 Corinthians 5:11
“But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.”
In this verse, the apostle Paul advises believers to distance themselves from individuals who identify as Christians but engage in immoral behavior. By doing so, we maintain our own moral standards and avoid being influenced by ungodly behavior.
This cautionary verse reminds us to be discerning in our relationships, ensuring that those we associate with share our commitment to living a righteous life.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
Peter reminds us to be watchful and vigilant in our spiritual journey, cautioning against the dangers of being ensnared by the enemy. This admonition should also be extended to the relationships we cultivate.
We must be discerning and ensure that our associations do not expose us to harmful influences or lead us away from God’s path.
Matthew 7:16-20
“By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit, you will recognize them.”
This passage reminds us to discern the character and actions of those around us. The fruit they produce, whether good or bad, is an indication of their true nature.
Through evaluating the fruit of someone’s life, we can discern whether they will be a positive influence and whether we should forge or maintain relationships with them.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
This proverb urges us to steer clear of foolish individuals as they lack wisdom and understanding. Engaging with them will not produce fruitful discussions or provide valuable insights.
Instead, we should seek out wise and knowledgeable companions who can enrich our lives and help us grow in wisdom.
Proverbs 24:21-22
“Fear the LORD and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials, for those two will send sudden destruction on them, and who knows what calamities they can bring?”
This verse advises against joining forces with those who rebel against authority, whether it be God or earthly rulers. Such associations can lead to severe consequences and bring about calamity.
It is crucial for us to align ourselves with those who honor and respect authority, promoting harmony, and avoiding unnecessary trouble.