Find Godly Company

Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)

Bad company corrupts good morals. If we constantly surround ourselves with ungodly people, we risk eroding our Christian values and godly principles. We are affected by what we eat, what we see and the people we mix with. We are a holy priesthood set apart to live holy lives that are pleasing to God. We are specifically instructed not to mix with wicked and ungodly characters.

Consider how an athlete who desires success maintains a strict regimen in his diet and daily physical routines in addition to following the advice of his coach. He is concerned with the type of food that enters his body, the type of thoughts that enter his mind as well as the type and duration of exercises he engages in. Most importantly, he listens to his coach and hangs out with like-minded people. How else do you think we can live godly lives without maintaining godly disciplines with the help of godly company?

What does God say about this?

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10:24,25 (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.

Psalm 1:1 (NIV)

Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.

Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)

What does this mean in practical living?

No man is an island. We cannot survive alone, let alone grow well in our spiritual life. We need to purposefully consider the type of companionship that we should pursue. Seek out people who can help to strengthen and deepen our faith in God and our personal relationship with him. Participate in activities and events that allow us not only to receive blessings but also to bless others with kind acts and wholesome talk done with God’s love.

At different life stages, we may need different types of company to seek advice and guidance from, relating to life choices and obedience to God’s calling for our lives. Young people may need advice regarding their pursuit of studies or boy-girl relationships. Young adults may need advice on marriage and child-raising. Older adults may need guidance in health maintenance or retirement plans. As such, it is not enough to simply avoid ungodly company. Instead, we should actively seek godly company for wise counsel in considering plans and decisions for our life situations.

Reflect and respond to God’s Word

• What type of company are you spending most of your time with? Why?
• How are they affecting your faith in God and your relationship with God?
• Identity a few persons from whom you can seek godly counsel and take actions to engage with them regularly.