Weekly Devotional: The Truth About Influences

“Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:13)

So many of us have the misconception that we, unlike the rest of society, are independent people and are unsusceptible to things of the world.

The truth is that we are all easily influenced by everything around us, even if we do not see it ourselves. Our friends, the music we listen to and even the humor we take part in can alter who we are as people, and this definitely has an effect on what we say, do and think. 

Jesus calls us to live in community with each other for so many different reasons, but it is up to us to choose what community we want to submerge ourselves in. It would be naïve to assume that we can face a world of so much sin alone.

Having good friends is a vital part of life – and an enjoyable one! There are so many positive changes that can be made in your life by simply surrounding yourself with people who embody Christ-like values. Your relationship with the Lord can be encouraged by being around people who are also pursuing a relationship with Him. The sinful desires you once had may slowly fade while being with people who have also chosen to live against those desires.

Whether we want to admit it or not, we are vulnerable people and incredibly impressionable. We adapt to our surroundings, and one of the most defining points in our relationship with God is when we choose to surround ourselves with godly things and godly people, rather than adapting to the world.

Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Although the changes that you make in your life may begin as only outwardly differences, they will make their way into your heart. These godly influences open the door for the Lord to begin to work on you and begin to mold you into the man or woman He created you to be.

The Department of Spiritual Life supports the entire student body by providing opportunities for spiritual leadership and discipleship, holding weekly worship services, offering global and local outreach ministry opportunities and facilitating weekly small group Bible studies. To learn more about spiritual life at GCU, visit our website or request more information using the button at the top of the page.