Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? – 2 Corinthians 6:14
During my college years I met a wide array of people. Naturally, I got along better with some than others, and a few were “instant friends.” One instant friend I met in a computer class. Neither of us was especially interested in computers, but we laughed through many lab sessions together. When we would have hours of work to do for a project, it was always easier if she was there. Because we had different majors and different interests, our paths did not cross often and we never became close friends. However, whenever we were together, we had a good time.
Towards the end of my senior year, I was having coffee with this girl and a few of her other friends. They were hilarious! I thought to myself that under different circumstances, I probably would have spent most of my free time with them. Everything was great, until one of the girls made a joke that I found extremely offensive. I was painfully uncomfortable, and even more so when the Lord laid it on my heart to tell those girls why I did not find that topic funny. However, it was a good lesson for me about the importance of choosing the right friends. I realized that the wrong ones could quickly have a negative effect on my walk with God.
In contrast to that friendship, my best friend from college was a Christian who was a huge support to me spiritually. She gave helpful, Biblical advice when I faced difficult situations, and encouraged me to stay focused on God despite many distractions. That relationship was a blessing from God. Looking back, I know I would be a very different person today if I had actually spent my free time with the friend from my computer class instead of my Christian friend.
Our friendships have a big impact on us. Our personalities, values, and spirituality are deeply influenced by the company we keep, which means it is crucial that we choose our close associates carefully. Of course, as Christians, we are to be friendly and kind to all people. But our close friends, those we allow into the inner circle of our lives, should be a carefully chosen group of like-minded believers.
From time to time, it is a good idea to take inventory of our close friendships. When we get together, is it an uplifting time? Do these relationships inspire us to a deeper walk with the Lord? They can, and that is exactly what God intended friendships to do.