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What Does the Bible Say about Choosing Our Friends?

Explore what the Bible says about choosing friends wisely and understand how good company can influence your life and faith.

six silhouette of people jumping during sunrise
six silhouette of people jumping during sunrise

Introduction

Friendship is an important part of our lives. The friends we choose can greatly influence who we are and how we live. The Bible gives us clear guidance on how to choose our friends wisely. In this article, we will explore what Scripture tells us about friendship and the importance of surrounding ourselves with good company.

Choose Wisely

Proverbs 12:26 says, “The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.” 1 This verse reminds us to be thoughtful about the friends we choose. Good friendships can encourage us in our faith, while bad friendships can pull us away from God.

Importance of Good Influence

1 Corinthians 15:33 states, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 This verse warns us that spending time with the wrong people can harm our morals and faith. It’s important to find friends who will support and uplift us.

woman in white and black striped shirt standing on yellow sunflower field during daytime
woman in white and black striped shirt standing on yellow sunflower field during daytime

Source: Google Image

Friends and Accountability

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 tells us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” 1 This passage highlights the benefit of having friends who can encourage us and help us when we are struggling. True friends stand by us in difficult times.

The True Nature of Friendship

Proverbs 17:17 reminds us, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” 1 This verse speaks to the loyalty and support we should seek in our friends. A true friend will be there for us, no matter the circumstances.

Avoiding Bad Influences

Proverbs 22:24-25 warns, “Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.” 1 This teaches us to avoid friendships that could lead us into negative behaviors. We should be cautious about the company we keep.

Conclusion

The Bible clearly teaches us the importance of choosing our friends wisely. Good friends can support us, encourage us, and help us grow in our faith. On the other hand, bad company can lead us away from God and into harmful habits. As we seek friendships, let us remember to choose those who uplift and inspire us to follow God.

Frequently asked questions

Why is friendship considered important according to the article?

Friendship is important because the friends we choose can influence who we are and how we live.

What warning does Proverbs 22:24-25 give about friendships?

Proverbs 22:24-25 warns against making friends with anger-prone people as their behavior can lead us into negative patterns.

What does Proverbs 17:17 reveal about true friendship?

Proverbs 17:17 reveals that a true friend loves at all times and is loyal through challenges.

What does Proverbs 12:26 teach us about choosing friends?

Proverbs 12:26 teaches that the righteous choose their friends carefully to avoid being led astray by the wicked.

How does bad company affect character, according to 1 Corinthians 15:33?

1 Corinthians 15:33 warns that bad company corrupts good character, indicating that the wrong friends can harm our morals.

What benefits do friends provide according to Ecclesiastes 4:9-10?

Friends provide support and encouragement, helping each other in times of struggle and toil.