The company we keep has a profound impact on our spiritual lives, as evidenced by the warnings and wisdom found in Scripture. The book of 1 Corinthians cautions that "bad company corrupts good character," emphasizing the need for discernment in our relationships. The wisdom literature of Proverbs offers guidance on this matter, advising us to be cautious in our choice of friends, for they can either lead us astray or sharpen us like iron, as seen in Proverbs 12:26, 13:20, and 27:17. Furthermore, Proverbs 18:24 reminds us that true friends are a rare and precious gift, making it all the more important to cultivate friendships that uplift and support our walk with God.
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A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the ways of the wicked lead them astray.
He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?
I do not sit with deceitful men, nor keep company with hypocrites. I hate the mob of evildoers, and refuse to sit with the wicked.
Do not make friends with an angry man, and do not associate with a hot-tempered man, or you may learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.
Better an open rebuke than love that is concealed. The wounds of a friend are faithful, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.