READ: Proverbs 13:20, 17:17, 18:24 27:6, 27:17
Ask any pastor of
young people what one of the most important factors in spiritual growth is and
you’ll find that they emphasize friendship. Of course, the significance of
friendship doesn’t end at a certain age and Proverbs teaches that our
friendships can play a huge role in who we become. Put simply, friendships can help
OR hinder. What is some specific advice that Proverbs offers?
First, who we spend time with can greatly
impact who we become. Or in the words of Proverbs, “whoever walks with the wise
becomes wise but the companion of fools suffer harm” (13:20). When we spend
time with those who are mature or maturing, we gain much. On the other hand,
when we invest lots of time with the foolish we’ll struggle to stay strong.
Instead, we place ourselves in the position of ALWAYS having to fight against
the tide. Very few can do this successfully.
Second, our
friendship time should involve support and spurring on of each other. These are
the valuable friendships! We do need those who will stick by us when troubles
come. And who will speak truth into our lives when lukewarmness is setting in,
or compromise? Listen to Proverbs - “faithful are the wounds of a friend . . .”
(27:6) And truly, “one man sharpens another.”
Finally, Proverbs
encourages us against having TOO many friends. When we spread ourselves too
thin, the impact of the best ones can be diluted. Certainly, “a man of many
companions may come to ruin . . .” (18:24). It is good to regularly evaluate our friendships, for quantity and quality.
JOURNALING AND PRAYER
1.
Spend
some time reflecting on how specific friendships have both helped and hindered
your spiritual growth. Praise God for the positive impact you’ve received and
ask Him to forgive you for letting others negatively influence you.
2.
Take
stock of your current group of friends. How is the quality? What about the
quantity? If you’re struggling to find friends, ask God where He wants you to
step out in finding friends. Perhaps it’ll involve getting involved more in
serving, or cell groups, OR being more open and friendly in the groups you’re
in right now. It’s vital that we don’t chase after friends, or demand
friendship, but seek to be friends and leave the rest up to God.
