Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33

Rotten fruits are dangerous to the growth and health of other nearby fruits. If left unplucked, it has the tendency to spoil hundreds of healthy fruits. This is because rotten fruits release ethylene gas, which speeds up the ripening process of nearby fruits. To ensure the total health of fruits on a tree, it is important to always look out for rotten fruits.

Bad friends are like rotten fruits. They emit energies that have the tendency to corrupt the most modest and properly trained people. It is important for us, as people, as Christians, to always look out for friends whose values are in-line with scripture and reflect the character of Christ. Our verse for today calls us to be on the look out for bad friends, it tells us not to be misled into believing our good values and morals are archaic, uncool, or dumb.

Back in High School, a good friend of mine started hanging out with people who were perceived “cool dudes.” These folks indulged in breaking bounds, drugs, alcohol and sometimes slept with prostitutes. Not long after this friend of mine started hanging out with the cool dudes, he started smoking. He skipped too many classes he had to drop out of school. Many addicts and hardened criminals in the society were once like my old friend, I am more than certain that they would’ve kept their sanity and innocence if they avoided “cool dudes”.

The Psalmist tells us that “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.” If you walk in the step of the wicked, sooner than later you will begin walking like the wicked do. If you stand in the way of sinners, sin will entice you and if you sit in the company of sinners, you end up being a mocker yourself. Scripture forbids mockery, sin and wickedness.

It is important for us to surround ourselves with positive and uplifting people who encourage us to be our best selves. People who motivate us to maintain good manners and live a righteous life. After-all, darkness and light cannot join together, we must not be equally yoked with people with divergent views or values. Instead, we must shine forth our light and show them the love of God. Perhaps they may change their ways and turn to God. May the good Lord help us, Amen.