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Dive into the world of Christian character development and discover the pivotal role of companionship. Understand the power of good company, the dangers of destructive relationships, and the impact of literature and art on our spiritual growth. Learn to navigate your social environment with wisdom and discernment for a closer walk with God.

The company we keep plays a pivotal role in shaping our character. The relationships we cultivate create a mental, ethical, and spiritual ambiance that impacts us continuously, influencing our spiritual well-being positively or negatively. As a young Christian, it’s essential to choose your close companions wisely. Find a few individuals, preferably around your own age, with whom you can form deep connections. Ensure these are individuals who embody spiritual qualities, those who enjoy studying the Bible, engaging in spiritual discussions, and who practice prayer. Choose those who are actively trying to guide others towards Christ.

Don’t worry if you find some Christian people more appealing than others. This is just human nature. We are all drawn towards different personalities, and this does not reflect negatively on others or on you. Nurture friendships with those who inspire and enhance your spiritual growth.

On the contrary, avoid friendships that negatively impact your spirituality and moral compass. Of course, we shouldn’t entirely isolate ourselves from non-believers or those with harmful habits. We should often interact with less spiritually-minded individuals, even those with questionable morals, in order to guide them towards Christ. But in these relationships, we must always be vigilant. Ensure that your aim is to uplift them; otherwise, they could easily pull you down. If you find that a particular friendship is damaging your spiritual life, despite your best efforts, it’s best to let go. Some people carry an aura of skepticism, cynicism, criticism, immorality, greed, or other negative traits that can influence you if you associate with them extensively. In such cases, the wise choice is clear; limit your interaction with them. Only maintain contact if you believe there’s a chance you can positively influence them.

Apart from living individuals, other influences can shape our lives, like the books we read. Books can exert a powerful influence, either positively or negatively. Nothing benefits us more than a good book, and nothing harms us more than a bad one. Reading biographies of virtuous individuals can be incredibly beneficial. Frequently revisit the lives of such righteous and truly great individuals as Wesley, Finney, and Moody. We’re fortunate to live in an era abundant with inspiring biographies. Engage with them. Well-crafted histories can also be valuable friends. Studying history is practical, enlightening, and spiritually beneficial, particularly when we observe God’s hand in historical events, recognizing the inevitable triumph of righteousness and the punishment of wrongdoing, in individuals and nations.

Some works of fiction can be helpful, but caution is necessary here. A considerable portion of modern fiction is morally damaging. Even books that aren’t explicitly harmful often present a distorted view of life, unpreparing us for reality. Excessive reading of fiction can damage mental acuity, as habitual novel reading can erode the capacity for focused, clear thinking. The allure of fiction often displaces more mentally and morally enriching reading material. We must ensure that even good literature doesn’t eclipse the best literature, namely God’s Book, the Bible. The Bible should always occupy the highest position.

Another influential element in our lives is the images we encounter, both regularly and occasionally. The pictures we see have an immense power in shaping our lives. For instance, a mother who dreamed of her sons becoming ministers found them instead drawn to the sea. She couldn’t comprehend this until a friend pointed out a large picture of a ship sailing across the ocean, prominently displayed in their dining room. Her boys had been entranced by this image every day, sparking a profound love and longing for the sea that eventually guided their life choices. Similarly, a single inappropriate image, regardless of its artistic value, can lead some young people down a path of ruin. Numerous art collections are polluted with improper pictures, making them potentially harmful for young men and women. Even a fleeting glimpse of an evil image can be repeatedly brought to mind, causing harm. Avoid any image, regardless of its artistic acclaim, that tarnishes your imagination with evil thoughts. Steer clear of any painting, engraving, etching, or photograph that leaves a stain of impurity on your mind. Instead, nourish your soul with images that inspire holiness, kindness, empathy, and tenderness.

The Spiritual Influence of Relationships

One can’t overstate the profound role that companionship and fellowship play in one’s spiritual growth and character development. The Apostle Paul warned the Corinthians, “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals'” (1 Corinthians 15:33, ESV). As a believer, your choice of friends should not be haphazard, but rather a carefully considered decision with your spiritual well-being in mind.

The Power of Good Company

Just as iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17), good company enhances our spiritual growth and walk with Christ. As you seek companionship in your Christian journey, look for those who display the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Being around such individuals will foster these traits in your life. Remember, these relationships should be mutual – as much as you seek to gain, be ready to contribute to their spiritual growth as well.

Avoiding Destructive Relationships

The Bible warns us about the company of the wicked and its damaging impact. Proverbs 13:20 states, “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” (ESV). Maintaining a balance between being the salt and light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14) and avoiding negative influences can be challenging. Always seek wisdom and discernment from God to ensure you are not being led astray in your quest to bring others to Christ.

The Impact of Literature and Art

Words, whether written or spoken, hold immense power. As you expose your mind to various types of literature, always remember that the Word of God should be your ultimate guide and filter. In the same vein, it’s crucial to be discerning about visual content. Immerse yourself in imagery that edifies your spirit and stimulates your love for all that is pure, lovely, and commendable (Philippians 4:8).

Guarding Your Heart

Finally, it’s vital to understand that your spiritual health is a reflection of the state of your heart. Proverbs 4:23 instructs us to “keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life” (ESV). Therefore, pay careful attention to your influences – relationships, books, art, and more.

Ultimately, as you strive to walk humbly with your God, remember the wisdom found in 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22: “But test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil” (ESV). By doing so, you ensure that your heart remains pure and your spiritual journey remains unobstructed.

About the Authors

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).

Reuben Archer Torrey was an American evangelist, pastor, educator, and writer. He authored many books on apologetics, prayer, Christian living, and theology.