In the pursuit of wisdom and godly relationships, Scripture highlights the importance of choosing companions who build each other up. The book of Proverbs offers guidance on this matter, noting that a true friend loves at all times and is born for adversity, while also warning against the influence of bad company. As Proverbs and 1 Corinthians caution, the company we keep can have a profound impact on our character and spiritual well-being. By surrounding ourselves with friends who sharpen and encourage us, as Proverbs suggests, we can cultivate strong, edifying relationships that bring joy and support to our lives.
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Whoever conceals an offense promotes love, but he who brings it up separates friends.
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Do not make friends with an angry man, and do not associate with a hot-tempered man, or you may learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.
Oil and incense bring joy to the heart, and the sweetness of a friend is counsel to the soul.
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My right hand of righteousness.
Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing.
He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.
A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the ways of the wicked lead them astray.