The Importance of Godly Relationships

Who are your closest friends?  Are they closely following Jesus, or are they going their own way? 

God warns us to be careful of who we spend our time with, because we will eventually become like them.  If your friends are close followers of Jesus, this can cause you to be challenged and have a stronger desire to walk close with Him.  These friends can also encourage you when you're having a difficult time in your life.  If your friends are not following Jesus, this will also have an affect on you.  You may find your walk with God getting "boring" and not find as much time for Him anymore.  You may find yourself participating in conversations that you normally would not have.  Having relationships with people who are not giving their lives to following Jesus can have a "dulling" affect on your spiritual life and convictions. You may even find yourself in an emotional or sexual affair with someone you are not married to.  The list can go on and on...

1 Corinthians 15:33 says, "Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character or morals."

Are you honoring God with your relationships?

If you are serious about following God, you need to take a close look at your relationships.  Perhaps there are some friendships you have that are not honoring Him.  It can be such a sacrifice to give up friendships that are not healthy, but we need to do this if we're serious about walking with Jesus.  When it comes down to it, Jesus is more important than any other relationship that we will ever have.

Prov 12:26 says: "A righteous man is cautious in his friendships. He is cautious".

Take the time to pray and ask God about your relationships.  He will definitely show you if you have a relationship that is not good for you.  He will give you the strength and courage to do what is needed.  Pray for Him to send Godly friends into your life who will help you grow!

Thank you, Jesus, for showing us how important Godly relationships are.  Thank you for helping me to choose ones that will encourage a stronger relationship with You. 

Picture credit: www.fbc-lowell