Why it Matters //

We were created to have relationships (family, friends, leaders, coworkers etc). From the very beginning of our lives, we are born into a relationship with our parents: we become sons or daughters. As we grow older, we encounter more and more people and have to learn how to develop, nourish and sometimes cut ties with people. The Book of Proverbs provides practical wisdom on how we should wisely steward our relationships. 

We know that relationships are highly valued by God, He desires to have a relationship with us and invites us to fellowship with Him. He has also given us people to do life with and to grow with in community.  But we need to be wise about the relationships we have with people around us. You’re probably familiar with the saying: “you’re the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with”. So, choose wisely who you let into your innermost circle.  

What It's Talking About //

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of teachings that are passed down from the wisest among elders. Many of the proverbs are written by Salomon during the tenth century BC. Salomon was king of Israel, the son of king David (and Bathsheba), and God had gifted him with incredible wisdom and insight on how to rightfully govern his people. 

Proverbs were written to give “prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young” (1:4), and to make the wise even wiser (1:5). The teachings were intended to guide people in how to live a life that leads to personal well-being, good relationships, prosperous labors, and favorable standing in the community.

Proverbs 13:20 NLT

20 Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.

Prov 22:24-25 NLT

24 Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people,

25 or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul.

Proverbs 27:5-6 NLT

5 An open rebuke is better than hidden love!

6 Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.