Have you chosen your friends wisely? Proverbs 13:20 is a powerful verse that challenges us to evaluate the friendships in our lives. Who are you walking with? Are they leading you towards wisdom, or pulling you into foolishness?

Evaluate Your Friends

First, let’s take stock of the relationships in your life. A wise friend fears God and loves His Word, while a foolish friend often dishonors God and disregards His teachings. To navigate this, ask yourself: Are my friends wise? What’s the difference between a wise friend and a foolish friend?

Characteristics of Wise Friends

1. A Wise Friend Fears God

Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." This reverence shapes how they live and guide others. They honor God in their choices.

2. A Wise Friend Loves the Word of God

Proverbs 1:5 tells us that a wise person seeks to learn and grow. They cherish and apply God’s Word, making it central to their lives.

Characteristics of Foolish Friends

1. A Foolish Friend Dishonors God

Psalm 14:1 warns us that the fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” These friends might not outright deny God, but their actions reflect a disregard for His authority.

2. A Foolish Friend Disregards the Word of God

Proverbs 1:22 illustrates the foolishness of those who mock or ignore God’s wisdom. They don’t see value in His teachings, and this can lead to a path of destruction.

Remove Foolish Friends

Once you've evaluated your circle, the next step is crucial: Remove foolish friends from your life. This doesn’t mean abandoning them entirely, but it does mean setting boundaries. You can still love them from a distance without compromising your walk with God.

Remember, “The companion of fools will suffer harm.” This isn’t just about becoming a fool yourself; it’s about the consequences of that association. You might find yourself in situations that jeopardize your spiritual growth, your reputation, and your peace.

Move Towards Wise Friends

After distancing yourself from unwise influences, actively seek out those who are wise. Surround yourself with people who will encourage and uplift you.

1. Pick Friends for Their Love, Not Their Approval

Choose friends who love the Lord and His ways rather than those who simply accept you as you are. Wise friends challenge you to grow and hold you accountable to become more like Christ.

2. Practice Being a Wise Friend

To attract wise friends, you need to embody wisdom. Pursue your relationship with God, serve others, and engage in meaningful conversations.

3. Pray for Wise Friends

Don’t underestimate the power of prayer. Ask God to bring wise individuals into your life, and be open to the people He sends your way.

Your Future Is at Stake

As I reflect on my own journey before becoming a pastor, I remember the transformation that occurred when I began to evaluate my friendships. It wasn’t easy, but the change in my circle brought a profound shift in my life’s direction. I went from being surrounded by those who encouraged a reckless lifestyle to being part of a community that sought God.

Ultimately, "Show me your friends, and I'll show you your future." The people you walk with will shape who you become. Choose wisely, for your future is at stake.

Let’s commit to surrounding ourselves with those who inspire us to walk in wisdom and deepen our relationships with God.