Want to live a joyful, meaningful life? One of the most underrated ways to build a strong foundation is to choose wise friends. No matter your background or beliefs, the people you spend time with shape your mindset, influence your choices, and ultimately affect your future.
Proximity Matters More Than You Think
We naturally become like the people we surround ourselves with. The Bible says it clearly in Proverbs 13:20: “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” This ancient wisdom is still true today. If you’re regularly around people who make poor choices, their actions can rub off on you, or worse, drag you into their consequences.
What It Means to Walk With the Wise
To “walk with the wise” means to intentionally align yourself with those who live with integrity, make thoughtful decisions, and seek God’s guidance. By observing, learning from, and spending time with wise companions, you naturally gain insight and maturity yourself.
How to Surround Yourself With Wise People
Here are a few ways to intentionally build proximity to people who will help you grow:
- Identify someone in your life you respect for their character and choices.
- Invite them to lunch, coffee, or a walk.
- Ask questions. Listen to their life experiences.
- Read Scripture together and discuss it.
- Pray for discernment and wisdom in your relationships.
As Proverbs 1:7 reminds us: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” True wisdom begins with honoring God, and it grows through the company we keep.
Spiritual Friendship and Long-Term Joy
Wise friendships are about more than good advice, they help you grow spiritually and emotionally. When you build friendships with those who walk closely with God, you gain access to their insight, strength, and peace. These relationships create a foundation for long-term success, faith, and joy.
God: The Ultimate Source of Wisdom
God is the wisest mentor of all. If you want to choose wise friends, start by spending time with God. Talk to Him. Read His Word. Surround yourself with others who are pursuing Him. If you’re looking to go deeper, explore our article: Are You Ready to Learn the Bible in 24 Hours?
You can also find community through resources like the YouVersion Bible App, where millions of people are growing together through daily Scripture and devotionals.
Conclusion
Don’t underestimate the power of your friendships. The people you choose to allow into your life will either lead you toward wisdom or away from it. If you want a happy, fulfilled life, choose wise friends who uplift you, challenge you, and walk with God. Make that choice today, and watch your life move in a better direction.
FAQs
It means intentionally building relationships with people who make godly, thoughtful decisions and live with integrity.
The Bible teaches that spending time with unwise people can lead to harm, even if you’re not the one making poor choices.
Look for mentors, teachers, spiritual leaders, or peers who reflect God’s wisdom. Connect with them through church, community groups, or shared interests.
Absolutely. You can love and pray for them without joining them in their choices. Boundaries protect your growth and peace.
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” This highlights how much influence our relationships have on our lives.
