Wise Companionship

For Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Proverbs 13:20

Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise,
but the companion of fools will suffer harm.

I have heard stories of individuals who were foolish in their behavior and beliefs, yet fell into friendships with mature, godly believers and came to a strong faith that turned them around. I've also heard stories of those who professed Christ and seemed mature, yet came into the circle of unbelievers and/or foolish people and then fell away from the faith and/or engaged in foolish behavior.

Who are the wise with whom you associate? Is there a wise person whom you look to for counsel? Are there wise persons whom you emulate? Think about that right now. Can you name companions who are godly, wise persons who counsel and behavior are to be trusted? What of foolish companions? Do you have companions who get into trouble; who act immaturely; who have yet to exhibit mature faith? Your companions will infect you with either wisdom or folly.

Depending upon your circumstances, you may need to proactively seek out wise companions. We cannot control who all our companions will be at work, family, school, and neighborhood. But we can control whom we will look to for counsel and example. You may need to call on the telephone, email on the computer, or invite to your home wise companions. But seek them out.

Meanwhile, you always have your wise Lord, and you may share in his vast wisdom through the study of his Word and through prayer. Seek after the Lord's wisdom. Whoever you seek counsel from and emulate, let it be one who is walking in the path of God.

Lord, may I follow Christ above all else. Give me wisdom to recognize the wise, and give me strength and courage to follow in their steps. Amen.