Today’s Verse

Proverbs 13:20

“Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” (NLT)

We all remember the theme song from Toy Story, "You've Got a Friend in Me." Released in 1995, it resonated so much with people that the song became the theme for all the Toy Story sequels and earned Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations. Sure, it's catchy, but we love it because it speaks to something real.

Think about the happiest moments in your life. Chances are, they involve friends—relaxed hangouts, deep talks, celebrations, and spontaneous adventures. Now, think of life’s most painful moments. No doubt sickness, heartbreak, and tragedy are on the list, though even these feel lighter with the support of friends. 

Friends have a unique way of enhancing the good and easing the bad. As Gary Black says, “they multiply joys and divide griefs.”

But in our busy, fast-paced, mobile world, it’s easy to lose a rich view of friendship and settle instead for shallow acquaintances. We all want great friendships, but we neglect how to get there.

“There’s a reason good friends are hard to find. You don’t find them, you make them.” That is both a challenging and encouraging idea because it reminds me that good community is out there—yet it’s going to take some effort from me. It requires me to make it a priority and, most importantly…to learn how to do it.

That’s why I believe that parents should teach their children how to have friends. That may sound odd, but think about it. Sixteen-year-olds spend months learning to drive. College students spend years learning about their chosen field… but we leave the development of good friends to happenstance. Lots of younger generations aren’t succeeding at meaningful friendships, and it's affecting every area of their lives.

We have the opportunity to teach subsequent generations how to be the kind of friend they want to have. To be kind and compassionate (Ephesians 4:32). To value honesty and build trust (Proverbs 12:19). To show empathy (Romans 12:15). To be eager to serve (1 Peter 4:9-10) and invite others who can’t repay you (Luke 14:12-14). We could go on and on.

The Bible says it so clearly, “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33) and “Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble” (Proverbs 13:20). Apparently, the company we keep matters to God. 

So let’s commit to walking through life with friends who bring out the best in us and point us back to God. Let’s model that for our kids. The company we keep is a choice, and good friends don’t just appear—they’re built over time and effort.

REFLECTION

Take some time this week to reflect on your current friendships. Ask yourself: Are these relationships bringing you closer to God? Ask God to give you wisdom and to lead you to people who will help you grow in faith and character.