People need people. And people influence each other heavily. It's as simple as that.
But who impacts us the most on a day to day basis?
The people we hang out with, of course. It's the core group of friends in our lives.
Sometimes, the friend groups we get ourselves involved with bringing us down. Bad choices are made. Those fall back on us, and we are held accountable for those actions. Being in the wrong crowd may be a hindrance, though.
Making tight-knit relationships with people who don't share the same values could get you in trouble. It can have a detrimental effect on your walk with Christ. It can harm your mental and emotional health. Having toxic people influence you may change you into someone you may not be proud of. Chasing after worldly things will ultimately leave you empty and confused.
This is why it's important to realize that a lot of who we are blends into the friends we choose to become buddy-buddy with.
It boils down to asking yourself, "What kind of person do I want to be?" and, "Who has God created me to be?" Once you find your answers, go from there and be intentional about it.
For me, I want to show Jesus. I want to be loving, grateful and kind. I want to be responsible and have a grateful heart. I want to be determined, personable and thoughtful. I want to lead a life that's pleasing to God.
The close friends that I have love Jesus more than anything. They pursue holiness. They embrace everyone with Christ's love. I can see God's characteristics in them. They uplift each other with wholesome talk. My friends will tell the truth, even if it hurts. They are responsible and maintain integrity.
Note: They are still sinners, just like everyone else. Things get messy sometimes. But the fact that they push me to be the best I can be to get me to where I need to be.
If I didn't have the kind of people in my life who motivate and inspire me to do those things, I would have a really hard time embodying the attributes that I hold near and dear to my heart. I wouldn't be the same person without their influence.
Pick people with the same goals and virtues in mind. Choose close friends that won't help lead you to a life where you may wake up one morning and think, "This isn't who I wanted to be." Surround yourself with good company that supports good character. The decision is yours.
Bible verses that encourage genuine friendship include: 1st Thessalonians 5:11, Hebrews 10:24-25, 1st Peter 4:8-9, Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, Proverbs 27:10, Proverbs 13:20, and 1st John 3:16.
