How to Choose Christ Dailyनमूना

Safeguard #3: Friends

Are friends really that influential in our relationship with God?

This third safeguard is crucial in keeping you following Jesus until the end: the influence of friends. “Friends” often become pivotal, either sustaining someone’s commitment to Jesus or contributing to their falling away during crises of faith, periods of doubt, or deconstruction. As the Bible warns, “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Cor. 15:33, NIV). I stand here today not solely because I consistently read my Bible or just dug myself in prayer when necessary.

I am here today because, during tough times, godly people surrounded me and spoke the truth into my life. I’m not saying it was always easy to hear, but they reminded me of who I am in God. They reminded me of His promises when I only saw disappointment and of the grace and mercy I had received when I was angry or felt offended. When I was ready to give up, they sat with me, prayed, and shared the Word. Your friends will either make or break your faith. Those whom you allow into the sacred places of your heart will either lead you to Christ or, like Job’s friends, try to lead you away from God. (See Job 4–25.) The Bible doesn’t detail off-record conversations or moments of fear and doubt among the disciples. However, living in community for over a decade has taught me that such moments inevitably arise to encourage each other, stand together, speak truths in love, and forgive. Looking at Job’s life, we see how friends can significantly influence us—they can either be a lifeline drawing us closer to God or a force that pushes us away.

Friendships are like rudders on ships; they might seem like a minor part of your life, but they can steer you in significant directions. Today, friendship is often misconstrued as merely agreeing with each other, but true friendships—those ordained by God—challenge you and guide you back to the cross. Whether you are in a crisis or know someone who is, remember that while many may agree with your pain, a true friend helps heal it.

Remember, don’t reduce your friends to just people in your comments section or those who don’t reciprocate vulnerability. Friendship is where you are known and where you also truly know someone else. Find people who don’t just like you when all is well but who know when to stand with you when all is hell.

Want to pursue the path of discipleship?

Check out Brian Barcelona's new book, Legends Die Young.