Your environment matters. Who you spend your time with can significantly impact the direction of your life. Consider a smoker, for example. According to the American Cancer Society, two of the most common reasons individuals begin smoking are because their parents or their peers smoke. The desire to fit in with friends or to imitate someone admired influences desire, and desire influences behavior. The point is simple: your environment can impact your behavior. This does not mean our environment excuses sin or removes personal responsibility. We always retain the ability to choose what is right. However, our surroundings can make righteous choices either more difficult or more attainable. For that reason, Scripture encourages us to place ourselves in environments that promote holiness and to surround ourselves with people who stir us up to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24–25).
This principle is beautifully captured in Proverbs 27:17: “Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”
A blade that is used regularly will eventually grow dull. The duller it becomes, the less effective it is. At some point, it must either be sharpened or set aside. The same is true for us. If we desire to fulfill our God-given purpose and remain useful in His service, we must be continually sharpened and refined. Without that sharpening, we risk becoming spiritually dull and ineffective. According to this proverb, part of our sharpening depends on who we allow into our lives. The people around us will either refine us or not. They will either challenge us toward growth or quietly influence us toward complacency or worldliness.
With that in mind, consider a few questions for application:
- Do you have a Paul (Mentor), a Timothy (Someone to Mentor), and a Barnabas (Encourager) in your life? This is a great way to be sharpened and sharpen others.
- How do you handle criticism and/or rebuke? Through prideful defense or humble examination?
- If you became like your three closest friends, would you become a better person? We tend to become like those we are around. There can be wisdom in seeking new friends or strengthening the relationships we already have.
Our environment matters. Choose it wisely.
-Bryce Mayfield