Choosing Wisely
I am writing later than usual because Debbie and I traveled to Denver today for the Western Conservative Summit. I missed last years event for the first time in four years because I was in the hospital. I appreciated the consideration of President Bill Armstrong of CCU and Senator John Andrews of the Centennial Institute for requesting prayer for me at last year’s event.
This evening three speakers were featured including Gov. Bob Jindal, Sen. Lee from Utah and the final one being Dr. Ben Carson. It was an exciting atmosphere with 3,000 attendees in the Bellco Theater at the Colorado Convention Center. It was good to see some friends that I haven’t seen for over a year. During the conference I will help out with the Rocky Mountain Energy Forum exhibit. I will be assisting Mary Janssen and Amy Attwood.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” Proverbs 13:20
When I read this verse this morning it caught my attention. It reminded me once again of the adage, “show me your friends and I will show you your future.” While it is good to have a variety of friends and friendships, not all relationships should be view the same. Those that are closest to you, those who have the greatest influence on you should be those Solomon describes as, “wise.”
If you want to sharpen your leadership skills, be around leaders. If you want to be more creative, be around creative people. I have always felt lifted up and “sharpened” in my skills when I am around those with more experience or insight into a certain arena of life than what I have. I need those I can challenge and help and I need those who can help me.
The converse is true as well. Some people may drag me down, make me negative and even influence my behavior. The challenge for parents is with their children. Usually parents can tell which kids in the neighborhood their children have been playing with by their attitudes or conduct. Paul warned in 1 Corinthians 15:33 Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” .
We also, have the opportunity to be those who lift others up. That is certainly part of the calling that we have as followers of Christ. Wisdom from the Lord is needed in each situation to know how we are impacting other and how others are impacting us. When it comes to friends and the company you keep, choose wisely, evaluate frequently.