It’s often said that “you are the company you keep,” and the Bible agrees. Scripture offers a lot of wisdom on the influence of our friends and the people we surround ourselves with. Let’s explore how the Bible encourages us to choose our relationships wisely and the impact they have on our spiritual lives.
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What Does The Bible Say About The Company You Keep
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse encourages us to choose our companions wisely, as the people we surround ourselves with can greatly impact our lives. When we associate with wise individuals, we gain wisdom and knowledge. However, when we choose to spend time with foolish and negative people, we expose ourselves to harm and negative consequences.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”
This verse warns us about the influence of bad company. Spending time with people who have corrupt morals and values can gradually erode our own character and lead us astray from the path of righteousness. It emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who inspire us to grow closer to God and live according to His principles.
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 verse cautions against forming relationships and friendships with individuals who have a quick temper and are easily angered. Their negative behavior can influence our own actions, leading us down a destructive path. It reminds us to exercise discernment when choosing the people we allow into our inner circle.
Psalm 1:1-2
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of avoiding the company of the wicked, sinners, and mockers. Instead, it encourages us to find joy in God’s Word and to continuously meditate on His teachings. By choosing to associate with those who share our faith and values, we can experience true blessing and spiritual growth.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This verse reminds us to be intentional in our choice of friends. The righteous seek out companions who align with their Godly values and beliefs. On the contrary, those who follow the path of wickedness often find themselves being influenced and led astray by their companions. It serves as a reminder to exercise discernment in our relationships.
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?”
This verse admonishes believers from being unequally yoked with unbelievers. It emphasizes the stark contrast between righteousness and wickedness, light and darkness. It encourages believers to seek companionship and partnership with fellow believers who share their faith, values, and commitment to serving God.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse illustrates the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who challenge and inspire us to grow spiritually. Just as iron strengthens and sharpens iron, when we associate with godly companions, we are encouraged and motivated to deepen our faith and pursue righteousness.
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 highlights the significance of having trustworthy and dependable friends. Associating with unreliable or unfaithful individuals can lead to destruction and harm. However, a true friend who remains loyal and supportive is invaluable, bringing comfort, love, and a sense of security.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of fostering positive relationships built on encouragement and support. We are called to uplift and inspire one another, strengthening our bonds and cultivating an environment of love and edification. By choosing to surround ourselves with people who are uplifting, we create a community that promotes growth and spiritual well-being.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse warns against the detrimental consequences of associating with those who engage in perverse and gossipy behavior. Such individuals often incite conflict and create divisions among friends. It encourages us to distance ourselves from these negative influences to maintain healthy and harmonious relationships.
Proverbs 13:30
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse reiterates the importance of choosing wise companions. When we surround ourselves with individuals who possess wisdom and insight, we have the opportunity to acquire and grow in wisdom ourselves. However, associating with foolish people can lead to harm and undesirable consequences. It prompts us to intentionally seek out wise mentors and friends.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
This verse advises us to distance ourselves from fools, as they lack wisdom and understanding. Foolish individuals often speak words that lack knowledge and discernment. By avoiding their company, we protect ourselves from being influenced by their ignorant and misguided perspectives.
Proverbs 24:1-2
“Do not envy the wicked, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.”
This passage urges us to refrain from envying or desiring the companionship of the wicked. Their hearts are filled with intentions to harm and their words are filled with schemes and chaos. Instead, we are called to seek companionship with those who embody righteousness and godliness.
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.”
This verse instructs us to distance ourselves from individuals within the Christian community who claim to be believers but engage in immoral acts. God calls us to maintain a standard of holiness and warns against compromising our values by associating with those who pursue sinful lifestyles.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This verse highlights the importance of having friends who are willing to lovingly correct and challenge us. A true friend may offer constructive criticism, even if it is initially hurtful, because they have our best interests at heart. On the other hand, an enemy may offer excessive flattery and insincere praise, leading to deceit and harm.
Proverbs 16:29
“The violent plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them.”
This verse cautions us about the intentions of violent individuals who harbor ill will towards the righteous. It reminds us to be cautious about the company we keep, as some may harbor resentment and animosity towards those who strive to live upright lives. Surrounding ourselves with godly companions can provide protection and support in the face of opposition.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.”
This passage advises against associating with individuals who overindulge in wine and food. The excessive consumption of alcohol and gluttony can lead to poverty and ruin. It reminds us to exercise self-discipline and surround ourselves with those who embody temperance and moderation.
James 4:4
“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”
This verse emphasizes the incompatibility of being friends with the world and being a friend of God. Choosing to align ourselves with the values and desires of the world positions us in opposition to God. It encourages us to prioritize our friendship with God over seeking acceptance and approval from the world.
Proverbs 1:10
“My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them.”
This verse serves as a warning against succumbing to the enticement and influence of sinful individuals. It encourages us to stand firm in our convictions and resist the pressure to engage in ungodly behavior. By choosing to surround ourselves with godly individuals, we are more likely to remain steadfast in our faith.
Psalm 34:14
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”
This verse calls us to reject evil and actively pursue righteousness. It reminds us to seek peace and embrace harmony. By associating with individuals who share this pursuit, we foster an environment that encourages moral growth and fosters positive relationships.
Ephesians 5:11
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
This verse instructs us to distance ourselves from participating in the fruitless deeds of darkness. Instead, we are called to expose and challenge the darkness with the light of God’s truth. It urges us to surround ourselves with individuals who share our commitment to living in the light and promoting righteousness.
Proverbs 19:27
“Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of listening to wise counsel and instruction. Ignoring guidance from knowledgeable individuals can lead us astray and hinder our growth in understanding. It encourages us to value the company of those who can impart wisdom and insight into our lives.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10
“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
This verse warns against aligning ourselves with individuals who habitually engage in sinful behavior. It reminds us that those who persist in a lifestyle of sin will not inherit the kingdom of God. It emphasizes the importance of seeking companionship with those who are committed to living holy lives.
Proverbs 27:9
“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”
This verse illustrates the value of true friendship and the positive impact it can have on our lives. Just like the sweet fragrance of perfume and incense, a faithful friend offers heartfelt advice that brings joy and comfort to our hearts. It emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with friends who genuinely care for us and offer wise counsel.
Proverbs 11:14
“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.”
This verse highlights the power of wise counsel and the importance of surrounding ourselves with advisers who possess knowledge and insight. It reminds us that victory and success are more likely to be achieved when we seek the wisdom of multiple advisers rather than relying solely on our own understanding.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse highlights the positive influence of godly companionship. Just as iron sharpens iron through friction, when we surround ourselves with like-minded believers, we can encourage and challenge one another to grow in faith and righteousness. It reminds us of the significance of choosing companions who inspire us to become better followers of Christ.