How many times do we use the four-letter word “they”? They said it’s a great movie. They’re all going to that club? Well, they said it would be ok. Exactly, who are the “they” in your life? Who are the “they” that influence you? “They” can make all the difference. You must avoid and get away from friends who drag you into their craziness, their drama. It’s usually a drama that never changes. The same old same old thing and they won’t do what’s needed to change and they suck you into their vortex and drain your senses. Steer clear of those who run hot and cold. Those who are users and only show up when they have a need. Recognize them for who they are. Stay away from those who would lead you astray. If they influence you to participate in foolish activities and drag you down into degradation, you will soon find your values and morals rotting and your life in the sewer. Don’t be blindsided by those who are prone to betrayal. Beware of their commitment resume. Those who have a past littered with broken relationships are not good prospects. Everyone can change but beware. Take a hard look and decide if your “they” are making you better and moving you toward God. If they aren’t, then change is needed!

Scriptures – Proverbs 1:7, 27:19, 14:7, 13:20, 2 Corinthians 6:14, Deuteronomy 22:10, Proverbs 9:9, 11:3, 16:3

Verse – The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Pr 1:7) A mirror reflects a person’s face, but what they are really like is shown by the kind of friends they choose. (Pr 27:19) Escape quickly from the company of fools; they’re a waste of your time, a waste of your words. (Pr 14:7) Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. (Pr 13:20)

Thought – The “they”, you should seek out as friends should possess the following characteristics: “T”-Teachable. They should be people who want to learn, who are willing to listen, take instruction and grow. You make each other better when you both are willing to grow together. “H” – Honest. A friend should be someone you can depend on to be honest with you. Do not tolerate dishonesty. “E” – Encouraging. They should be able to tell you the hard truths, but at the same time encourage you. You should be loved and accepted in your relationship, not merely tolerated. Don’t spend all your time trying to please someone who will always put you down no matter what you do. Choose wisely. “Y” – Yielded. This refers to the relationship “they” have with God. Just as you should be fully submitted and committed to God, you need a friend who is in step with God as well. If you both are yielded to God’s plan for your lives, you will have a much happier and deeper quality relationship.

Questions – Who are the “they” in your life? How are “they” influencing you? What relationships are moving you toward God? What relationships pull you away from what you know is right? Describe a time when “they” led you down a bad path? Describe a time when “they” gave you the encouragement and help you needed just at the right time? Do you need to make some changes to the “they” in your life? If so, how do you plan to proceed?

Response – Make a list of your “they”. By each name rate your friends based on how their influence affects your life, your activities, decisions, and faith. Use a scale of 1 to 10 to rate how they positively or negatively influence your life. After you take an honest look at your “they”, decide what you need to do.

Prayer – Dear Heavenly Father, give me the courage to make some tough decisions about the relationships in my life. Help me to recognize relationships that are not leading me in the path you have set before me. Guide my steps and help me to increase my friendships with other Christians who will guide and encourage me in my faith. Thank you for your word that brings truth and light on my journey. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.