Who we surround ourselves with has a profound effect on the direction of our lives. In today’s fast-paced world, there’s no shortage of voices speaking into our lives—friends, family, colleagues, media, social platforms, and more. Each voice carries influence, and the Bible encourages us to be intentional about who we allow to speak into our hearts. The people you spend the most time with can either help you walk toward God’s purposes or distract you from them.
Psalm 1 reminds us that the person who prospers avoids the counsel of the wicked, does not stand in the way of sinners, and doesn’t sit in the seat of mockers. Instead, this person delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on it day and night (Psalm 1:1-3). The world often promotes friendships based on popularity, convenience, or shared interests, but God desires that we form relationships built on truth, accountability, and mutual spiritual growth. Walking in step with the world will only lead us away from God, but surrounding ourselves with godly influences leads to blessings and prosperity.
It’s crucial to evaluate who we allow into our inner circle. Are they encouraging us toward God’s will, or are they drawing us into negative behaviors or worldly attitudes? We are also called to be that kind of friend to others—someone who speaks life, truth, and encouragement, reflecting God’s love and grace.
In contrast to worldly wisdom, which often focuses on self-interest, Godly counsel will always point us back to Christ and His purposes for us. It’s easy to be led astray by worldly influences that sound good but lack God’s truth. That’s why we must be discerning, observing the fruit of others’ lives before allowing their words to guide us.
Questions to Ask Ourselves:
- Who are the people in my life that are speaking into my heart regularly? Are their words pushing me closer to God or pulling me away from Him?
- Am I being intentional about seeking Godly counsel?
- Are there any relationships in my life that I need to reconsider or set boundaries around because they are influencing me negatively?
- Am I being a positive influence on my friends, encouraging them to follow God’s ways?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for placing people in my life who can encourage me to grow closer to You. Help me to discern who I should allow to speak into my life and to remove any influences that lead me away from Your will. Surround me with friends and mentors who will sharpen me and help me to walk in Your truth. In turn, give me the strength and wisdom to be a Godly influence in the lives of others. Lead me to relationships that bring life, growth, and encouragement. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Supporting Verses:
Proverbs 13:20 (NIV): “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
Psalm 1:1-3 (NIV): “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, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
Takeaway:
The voices and influences you allow into your life will shape your future. Be intentional about seeking friends and mentors who point you to God’s truth and His ways. Their counsel will help you grow, prosper, and bear fruit in every season of life. Be mindful, and ensure that your inner circle aligns with God’s heart.
