“The righteous should choose his friends carefully,
for the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
Proverbs 12:26

Your reputation greatly depends on the kind of friends you choose. Don’t let your heart be led by the influence of those who will tempt you in sin. Perhaps you think you can bring them to the Lord, but usually the very opposite happens – their influence over you brings you to do things you otherwise wouldn’t do, foolish things, the ways of the world.

The Word of God warns you to be very careful about this. Don’t think you’re strong enough to not be tempted. Don’t put the Word of God to the test.

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes…”
Proverbs 12:15

What’s right in their eyes, or even in your own …may not be right. They use a different agenda, a totally different foundation than you do. Don’t think you can change them, the Word of God advises you to be very careful in choosing your friends.

Maintain kindness and mercy to all, but choose your friends very carefully.