We have a number of influences in our lives – family, friends, media, books, etc. People who are close to us have a significant influence in our lives. You may have heard the saying, “Show me your friends, and I’ll tell you who you are.” Solomon reveals the vital importance of having the right friends in our lives.

He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. (Proverbs 13:20)

It is important to realize that it is not simply talking with the wise, but it is walking with the wise that will make you wise. Words may inspire us, but it’s our community that shapes us. Solomon uses an interesting Hebrew word for “companion”. The root word conveys the idea of feeding and it was used to refer to a shepherd. This is an individual who is not simply a friend but one who has a significant influence in our lives. Who are the companions in your life that have a significant influence upon you?

Your companions can have either a constructive or a destructive influence in your life. The Bible is replete with examples of positive and negative influences. We read about righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the sensual conduct of unprincipled men. Rehoboam rejected the wise advice of his elders and heeded the foolish advice of his companions which resulted in a fractured kingdom. The story of King Joash is especially poignant in this regard,

Joash was seven years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years in Jerusalem; and his mother’s name was Zibiah from Beersheba. Joash did what was right in the sight of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada the priest. (2 Chronicles 24:1-2)

Jehoiada was an excellent mentor to young King Joash and he demonstrated wisdom as he walked with Jehoiada and followed his advice. Just as a rotten apple will adversely affect a good apple, the foolish companions of Joash effaced the positive influence of Jehoiada and the nation suffered harm,

But after the death of Jehoiada the officials of Judah came and bowed down to the king, and the king listened to them. They abandoned the house of the Lord, the God of their fathers, and served the Asherim and the idols; so wrath came upon Judah and Jerusalem for this their guilt. (2 Chronicles 24:17-18)

Your companions have a powerful influence in your life. We could say, “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your life, for your days are your life miniature.” You may think you can handle negative influences, but be careful. The Apostle Paul warns us,

Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Choose to walk with those who are wise and you will learn from their wisdom and you will become wise.

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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