One of the most certain biblical principles is this: the people you spend time with will affect you. People rub off on one another! Only fools believe they can spend time around fools and not begin to think like them. Peoples’ words and values are powerful and addictive. We do not realize how often peoples’ attitudes and views of life seep into our own attitudes.
That is why we must be proactive in choosing our companions. Do you see people who are continually being negative and critical of others? Do you really want to become like them? Do you see someone who is prideful? Or lustful? Or sacrilegious? Or profane? Do you want to see those negative traits migrate into your own character?
Conversely, are you aware of someone who demonstrates godly wisdom? Do you know people of sterling character or fearless conviction? Would you like to obtain those qualities yourself? If so, be proactive. Intentionally put yourself next to those you want to rub off on you. Ask for time to spend with such people. Ask them questions and learn from them. Invite them to speak into your life. Watch them and how they conduct themselves. Don’t merely gravitate toward people who are already like you. Find people who are living their lives on a higher plane than you currently are, and get as close to them as you can! Never become content with the current state of your life as long as there are still new ways to improve yourself and to become more like Christ.