Friends are an important factor of our lives. Sometimes we can talk to friends about things that we can’t talk to family, siblings, or our significant other about. Often friends soon become like family and our ways begin to merge together. We begin to say things that they say, we begin to act the way they act, and even begin to do some of the things they do. For this reason, its vital that our friends are “good” influences, because no matter how hard we try, our friends will rub off on us whether that is a good thing or not.
Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. – Proverbs 18: 24
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. – Proverbs 17:17
Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. – Proverbs 13:20
How are your friends influencing you?
Do you love one of your friends dearly, but you know they aren’t the best influence for you? Maybe you haven’t even noticed how your friends bad attitude has rubbed off on you, their lack of motivation towards their school work or job, their curiosity towards other men/women when they’re married, or their beliefs/actions that go against the Word of God. Choose your friends wisely so that you too may not go astray. Sometimes, we have to take a step back to ensure we are living in accordance to God’s Word, even if that means taking a step back from someone we love.
How are you influencing your friends?
Even though it is very important to have good friends, it’s even more important to “be” a good friend. You can’t expect to have good friends when you aren’t one. Choose to be the friend that is reliable, shows unconditional love, and makes good decisions. Be the friend that is bold enough to disagree with their actions when they go against God’s word. Be the friend that loves them when they can’t love themselves. Be the friend who chooses to direct them in the right direction. You are who your friends are. Are you happy with who that makes you? Your friends are who you are. Are you happy with who you’re making them?
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. – Proverbs 27:17
Boost of Love 