Blessed is the man who doesn't walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the way of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers; But his delight is in Yahweh's law; On his law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree planted by the streams of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also does not wither. Whatever he does shall prosper. Psalms 1:1–3 WEB.

Though it didn't start that way or show itself immediately, we slowly became more like them. First, standing around talking, then sitting and listening to cynical, bitter gossip at church. Before long, I felt just like they did, and I began to hear it in my speech. I'm not sure why I didn't see all this negativity before! How could I have missed it? It was very subtle and crept in like poison. Finally, we got a grip on it, moved away from that side of the church, and our life was better.

The walking, standing, and sitting in this verse are progressive. A gradual slowing in the speed of your walk. In 1 Corinthians 15:33, Paul wrote, "Do not be deceived: Bad company corrupts good character." While it's certainly true outside of the church, we found that it can be pretty bad inside the church as well. The fruit of the Spirit is: "Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:21–23). Some of that fruit was apparently missing in our lives and the people we were sitting by.

The company you keep will affect your outlook on life. They can bring out the best in you or the worst. They can inspire you or depress you. Many people are happy where they are spiritually and will not want you to grow either. So don't hang out with bad company, for they will eventually bring you down to their level.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank You and pray that You give me the right friends. Please help me be aware of my surroundings and the bad influences in my life. I want to grow in Your likeness. So please give me the grace and strength to make the right decisions. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen!

Note: Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:12-13) ~ If you have a prayer need, we are here for you! We and the prayer team are ready to lift you up at our private prayer page: RHM Prayer Network. If you are interested in joining the prayer team, here is how to get started Prayer Partners.