Wise Friends

It can be hard to say no. When friends want us to go along with something, even if we think it’s wrong, it’s tough to be someone willing to stand out and disagree. As we’ve seen over the last few weeks, God wants us to be people who are honest, kind, gentle, loving, and respectful of others. But this doesn’t mean always going along with what others say to make them happy. When we know something is wrong, then it’s important to be able to say no.

Both of the proverbs you’ve read today go even further: not only should you say no to friends who do the wrong thing, but if they’re like that often, then maybe you should reconsider your friendship. The people you surround yourself with rub off on you, and to look after yourself and continue to honour God in the way you live means choosing your friends wisely.

Saying no is hard because it means making a choice to go against what someone else wants. Yet when we find our identity in Jesus, we can say no because we no longer need to say yes to find love, safety, or acceptance in other things or people. Instead, we can remember that Jesus loves us, gives us safety, and accepts us as we put our trust in him.

Questions: 

1. Do you find it easy to say no to others? Why or why not? 
2. Why do you think knowing that Jesus loves and accepts you can give you the confidence to say no when a friend is acting wrongly? 
3. Even good friends sometimes make bad choices. Does that mean we shouldn’t be their friend anymore?

Prayer:

Loving Father, thank you that because of Jesus I am completely loved and accepted by you. Please help me to say no to doing the wrong thing, even if my friends want me to act against your will. Enable me to be a light for you when I’m with my friends. Amen.