Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character. – 1 Corinthians 15:33
Bible Verses About Company You Keep
The Influence of Our Company
We often hear the saying that we are influenced by the company we keep, and the Bible echoes this wisdom. In our walk with Christ, the influence of our companions can lead us closer to Him or draw us away. It’s important for us to choose friends that uplift our spirits and encourage us in our faith. As we explore these verses, let us reflect on the kind of company we choose and how they shape our walk with God.
Proverbs 13:20
Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. – Proverbs 13:20
Proverbs 27:17
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. – Proverbs 27:17
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. – 1 Peter 5:8
Psalm 1:1
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. – Psalm 1:1
Proverbs 1:10
My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them. – Proverbs 1:10
The Importance of Righteous Companions
Choosing to surround ourselves with righteous companions can truly transform our spiritual life. When we gather with those who share our faith and values, we are more likely to walk in the light and support each other along the way. Righteous company not only encourages us but also holds us accountable in our actions and decisions. Let us seek out friendships that uplift our spirits and draw us nearer to God.
Hebrews 10:24
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. – Hebrews 10:24
Ecclesiastes 4:9
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. – Ecclesiastes 4:9
Proverbs 12:26
The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray. – Proverbs 12:26
2 Corinthians 6:14
Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? – 2 Corinthians 6:14
Psalm 119:63
I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts. – Psalm 119:63
Godly Counsel
Receiving counsel from godly friends is an essential part of our growth. We are encouraged to seek wisdom from those who align with our beliefs and values. Good counsel can provide guidance, encouragement, and necessary correction in our life. By surrounding ourselves with wise individuals, we can discern God’s will more clearly and trust in His plans for us.
Proverbs 15:22
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. – Proverbs 15:22
Psalms 119:105
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. – Psalms 119:105
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. – James 1:5
Proverbs 19:20
Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise. – Proverbs 19:20
Proverbs 20:18
Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war. – Proverbs 20:18
Growth Through Association
As we grow in our faith, the company we keep can serve as both an outlet and a support for our spiritual journey. Growth comes from actively choosing to associate with people who reflect the love of Christ. These relationships can inspire us to reach new heights in our faith and encourage us to grow in wisdom and understanding. We must be intentional about cultivating relationships that help us flourish spiritually.
Philippians 1:6
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. – Philippians 1:6
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Psalms 133:1
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! – Psalms 133:1
Proverbs 27:9
Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel. – Proverbs 27:9
Matthew 18:20
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. – Matthew 18:20
Testing the Spirits
We are called to test the spirits around us and ensure that our company aligns with the teachings of Christ. Not every friendly face will have our best interest in mind, and being discerning is key. Through prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can ensure that our associates support our journey rather than distract us from it. Let us remain vigilant in our choices and surround ourselves with the right influences.
1 John 4:1
Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. – 1 John 4:1
2 Timothy 2:22
Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. – 2 Timothy 2:22
Matthew 7:20
Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. – Matthew 7:20
Proverbs 26:11
As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly. – Proverbs 26:11
Galatians 5:9
A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough. – Galatians 5:9
Walking in Love
Our relationships should be anchored in love, a reflection of the love Christ has for us. By walking in love, we truly reflect God’s image in our connections with others. Let our company be filled with affection, kindness, and compassion, as we bring light into one another’s lives. Love is the strongest bond and serves as the foundation for every meaningful relationship we strive to create.
1 Corinthians 13:4
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. – 1 Corinthians 13:4
Colossians 3:14
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. – Colossians 3:14
John 15:12
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. – John 15:12
Ephesians 4:2
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. – Ephesians 4:2
Romans 13:10
Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. – Romans 13:10
Final Thoughts
As we consider the company we keep, we are reminded of the incredible influence our relationships have on our spiritual journey. Seeking out wise, godly, and loving companions helps pave the way for spiritual growth and encourages us to stay true to our faith. Being intentional with our choices leads us toward better character and reinforces our commitment to live by God’s word.
Let us continue to grow together in love and faith, seeking friendships that uplift us and draw us closer to Christ. Remember that our relationships can be both an encouragement and a challenge. Together, let’s commit to surrounding ourselves with those who inspire us to follow God’s path and shine His light in our lives.
As we reflect on our relationships, I encourage you to visit Proverbs 27:15-16 and Proverbs 12:12 for further insights. Let’s continue exploring the beautiful lessons God has for us in His word.