15 Bible Verses about Bad Company: Wisdom from Scripture
The people we surround ourselves with can greatly influence our lives. In the Bible, there are numerous verses that emphasize the importance of choosing our company wisely. In this post, we’ll look at 15 verses that will provide guidance on the impact of the company we keep and how it can shape our character.
Related: 10 Bible Verses about Friendship: Building Strong Relationships
Bad Company Bible Verses
1. 1 Corinthians 15:33
“Don’t be fooled by those who say such things, for ‘bad company corrupts good character.'”
2. Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.”
3. Proverbs 22:24-25
“Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul.”
4. 2 Corinthians 6:14
“Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?”
5. Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from fools, for you won’t find knowledge on their lips.”
6. Psalm 1:1
“Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers.”
7. Proverbs 1:10
“My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them!”
8. 1 Corinthians 5:11
“I meant that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or is a drunkard, or cheats people. Don’t even eat with such people.”
9. Proverbs 16:29
“Violent people mislead their companions, leading them down a harmful path.”
10. Proverbs 17:4
“Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander.”
11. 2 Thessalonians 3:14
“Take note of those who refuse to obey what we say in this letter. Stay away from them so they will be ashamed.”
12. Proverbs 23:20-21
“Do not carouse with drunkards or feast with gluttons, for they are on their way to poverty, and too much sleep clothes them in rags.”
13. James 4:4
“You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God.”
14. Proverbs 24:21
“My child, fear the Lord and the king. Don’t associate with rebels.”
15. 2 John 1:10-11
“If anyone comes to your meeting and does not teach the truth about Christ, don’t invite that person into your home or give any kind of encouragement. Anyone who encourages such people becomes a partner in their evil work.”
Short Prayer
Dear Father God, please bring the right people into our lives in Your perfect timing. Help us to recognize the impact of the relationships we form and to be discerning in our associations. Please give us the wisdom to walk with those who inspire us to grow closer to You and to avoid the pitfalls of bad company. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Conclusion
These 15 verses serve as a reminder of the powerful influence those we surround ourselves with can have on our lives. Scripture urges us to choose our company wisely, as it can either lead us closer to God or steer us away from His path. Let us be vigilant in our choices, seeking the company of those who encourage us in our faith and walk with the wise, for it is in such company that we find true wisdom and virtue.
