A devotional on choosing friends starts with Proverbs 13:20 (ESV): “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” The people we spend time with shape who we become. Choosing friends wisely is one of the most important decisions of any school year or season.
Key Verse
“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” (Proverbs 13:20, ESV)
We Become Like Our Companions
Solomon noticed something we all know. Friends rub off on each other. We pick up their words, habits, humor, and attitudes. Over time, our closest friends influence our choices more than we realize.
That can be wonderful or harmful. Walking with wise people makes us wiser. Spending all our time with foolish people leads to harm.
What a Wise Friend Looks Like
A wise friend fears God, tells the truth, is kind, and encourages you toward good things. They are honest with you even when it is uncomfortable. They do not pressure you to do what is wrong. They celebrate your successes and stay close in your hard times.
Wise friends are not perfect. They are growing too. But they are heading in a good direction.
The Companion of Fools
In Proverbs, a fool is someone who ignores God and refuses correction. A companion is a close, regular friend. Solomon is not saying never talk to anyone who is not a Christian or who struggles. Jesus was a friend of sinners. The question is who shapes you most.
We can love and serve everyone while choosing carefully whom we let steer our lives.
Be a Wise Friend
The verse is also a challenge. Are you the kind of friend who helps others grow wiser? Do you encourage, tell the truth gently, and point people to God? The best way to find good friends is often to become one.
When Friendships Change
Sometimes following Jesus means stepping back from friendships that pull you away from him. That can be painful and lonely. Pray for new friends, look for a church youth group or small group, and be patient. God cares about your loneliness.
If you feel very isolated or sad for a long time, talk with a parent, pastor, or counselor.
Friends for the New Season
A new school year or job is a natural time to form new friendships. Be intentional. Look for people who share your values and invite them into your life.
Today, Try This
Write the names of your three closest friends. Next to each, write one way they help you grow and one way you can help them grow. Pray for each one.
Reflection Question
Who are you walking with right now, and are they helping you become wiser?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for the gift of friendship. Help me choose friends who love you and help me grow. Make me a wise and faithful friend to others. Give me courage to step back from friendships that pull me away from you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Proverbs 13:20 mean?
Proverbs 13:20 (ESV) teaches that we become like the people we spend time with. Walking with wise people makes us wiser, while close companionship with fools leads to harm.
How do I choose good friends as a Christian?
Look for people who fear God, tell the truth, encourage you, respect your values, and help you grow. Be that kind of friend too, and pray for wise friendships.
Should Christians only be friends with Christians?
No. Jesus loved and spent time with all kinds of people. But our closest, most influential friendships should be with people who encourage us to follow God.
Keep Reading
- Explore more: Bible verses about love
- Read more daily devotionals
- The narrow way: what the narrow gate means (Matthew 7:13-14)
- Related: Devotional on a Teachable Heart (devotional)
- Related: Bible Verses About Friendship
- Related: Devotional on Friendship: A Friend Loves at All Times
- Related: Devotional for College Students
- Related: Devotional for Students: The Beginning of Knowledge