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“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)

Proverbs 13:20 tells us that those who walk with wise people become wise people. On the flip side, those who hang with fools are in for some trouble. We have to decide if we want to be wise or foolish. We are influenced by who we spend our time with. Look to spend more time with those who live their lives in the manner that we wish our lives to look like. That’s the first tip: Choose wise people to pursue and spend time with!

Second, what does it mean to pursue? We should be careful about how we pursue people. In today’s society, everyone is so busy…pressuring someone to spend time with us will not increase our chances of building a lasting, healthy relationship. In fact, it will more than likely lead to the opposite. As we pursue, don’t over-communicate. As we pursue, don’t over-flatter. As we pursue, don’t. overdo. it.

Third, and finally, remember that friendships should be mutual. Friendships should be give and take. While we pursue wise people that we wish to be like…what will they get out of their relationship with us? Remember that we have to put something valuable into the relationship as well. Clearly, many friendships consist of one person who may be more spiritually mature or more emotionally mature. One person may have their life together more than the other. One person is likely going to be more wise. All of that is totally okay. At the same time, keep in mind that friendships should be reciprocal.

Seek wise people to become friends with. Pursue them carefully. Remember that friendships should be mutual. Now those are some tips for healthy friendships!

“Dear Lord, thank You for sharing Your wisdom with us. Help me to attain and maintain healthy friendships.”

For His Glory

Laurel Shaler (www.drlaurelshaler.com)
TRBC Women’s Life