“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” (Proverbs 13:20 NIV)

When I was in 9^th grade some of my friends were experimenting with drugs, sneaking out in the wee hours of the morning, disrespecting their parents, and so on and so forth.  I was too afraid to do those things, but I enjoyed hanging with them. One day at the dinner table I was telling my parents some of the things these kids were doing.  I am not sure how or why the conversation came up but as I was talking my father said, “When you hang around people who do those things, you will get a reputation of doing the same thing.” I said, “But I don’t do those things!”  He said, "It doesn't matter.”  I said, "But that is not fair.  I like them!” Then he said, “People judge you by the company you keep.”  I slowly quit hanging around with them.

           This verse highlights the power of influence, urging careful selection of friends to foster positive influence rather than destructive influence.  This scripture advises walking with the wise to gain knowledge and avoiding fools.  Sometimes we forget that relationships and companionship shape our character, decisions, and destiny.  And have the power to influence us—either for good or bad.  

           Choosing wise, god-fearing, morally healthy friends leads to growth and positive relationships, whereas aligning with foolish, undisciplined individuals results in negative outcomes.  For birds of a feather flock together.  You are the company you keep.  “Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future”-Mark Twain.  It is something to remember.  God Bless. Amen.

denise