Have you ever heard the saying, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with”?
While it might sound like a modern self-help mantra, this idea actually has its roots in ancient wisdom.
Today, we’re going to explore a proverb that speaks directly to the power of our associations and how they shape our lives.
Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.
Proverbs 13:20
Understand the Wisdom
This proverb packs a powerful punch in just a few words. Let’s break it down:
Power of Association
The verse starts by highlighting the positive impact of walking with the wise. It’s not just about casual interaction, but about close companionship.
Promise of Growth
There’s a promise here: spend time with wise people, and you’ll become wise yourself. It’s a process of osmosis, where wisdom rubs off on you.
Warning
The second half of the verse serves as a stark warning about the consequences of keeping foolish company.
What This Means for You
You might be thinking, “Does this mean I need to ditch all my friends and only hang out with super-smart people?”
Not exactly. Let’s look at what this verse means for our lives today:
1. Your Associations Matter
The people you spend time with have a significant impact on your character, choices, and future. This proverb encourages us to be intentional about our relationships.
2. Wisdom is Contagious
Just as you can catch a cold from being around sick people, you can “catch” wisdom from being around wise people. It’s not automatic, but it’s a natural process.
3. There’s a Choice to Make
The proverb presents two paths: walking with the wise or being a companion of fools. We have the power to choose our associations.
4. There are Consequences
Our choices in companionship aren’t neutral. They can lead to growth and wisdom or to harm and folly.
Your Next Steps
So, how can you apply this proverb to your life? Here are some practical steps:
- Evaluate your circle: Take an honest look at the people you spend the most time with. Are they encouraging you to grow and make wise choices?
- Seek out wise mentors: Look for people who embody the wisdom you want to develop. This could be in your personal life, at work, or in your faith community.
- Be intentional about your time: Make an effort to spend more time with people who challenge you to grow and less time with those who might lead you astray.
- Be a wise friend: Remember, this proverb works both ways. Strive to be the kind of wise companion that others can benefit from.
- Expand your circle wisely: While it’s good to have diverse friendships, be cautious about close companionship with those who consistently make foolish choices.
Remember, this proverb isn’t calling you to be judgmental or elitist. It’s about recognizing the profound impact our close relationships have on our lives and making wise choices accordingly.
Next time you’re considering who to spend your time with, think back to this verse. Let it guide you in cultivating relationships that will help you grow in wisdom and character.
That’s the heart of Proverbs 13:20 – a call to surround yourself with wisdom so that you, too, can grow wise.
Are you ready to walk with the wise?
Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study
You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms
God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!
As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!
This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.
- Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
- Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
- Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!