As you read through the Proverbs, I urge you to reflect, pray, and apply these devotional bits of encouragement and wisdom to your own life.
Influence.
What do you allow to influence you? Who do you allow to influence you? There are many influences in life, and many people do not discriminate between good and bad influences. They choose poorly. Scripture says, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33) We often think about how young people need to hear this and pick good friends. While this is true, it is also vital advice for all of us regardless of age. Be wary of bad investment advice, poor lifestyle choices, destructive habits, conspiracy theories, fear-mongering, legalism, prejudice, and all forms of harmful influences. Any person can find someone who will be a destructive influence. And every person can find positive and good influences. Choose well. Choose wisely. Be careful. Be thoughtful. Be aware.
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck. My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them…my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths; Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the life of those who get it.” – Proverbs 1:8-10, 15, 19