God’s Word likewise seeks to convince us of the same principle. When writing to his son about sinners, Solomon says, “My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path” (Proverbs 1:15). Then, he tells him why this is so important in Proverbs 22:24-25, “Make no friendship with an angry man…lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.” Further reinforcing this truth, Solomon adds, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20). We might try to convince ourselves that we won’t be ill affected by time spent with unwise, or ungodly, people. However, God’s Word is consistent and clear about this principle. The Apostle Paul tells us in I Corinthians 15:33, “Be not deceived: evil communications [companionship, association together, or company] corrupt good manners.” Before long we will begin to think, talk, and act just like the people with whom we spend our time. You can count on it.

Solomon may have learned to make wise choices in companions from his father, David. His testimony was, “I have not sat with vain persons… with dissemblers…and will not sit with the wicked” (Psalm 26:4-5). David had established a standard by which he chose his friends: “I am a companion of all them that fear Thee, and of them that keep Thy precepts” (Psalm 119:63).

Do you have the right kind of friends, truly godly ones? Allow the Lord to influence you through His Word to avoid ungodly old friends and begin making friends, and spending time, with those who are godly. The decision you make on this issue will have far-reaching spiritual affects for the rest of your life.