Choosing to associate with like-minded people or people with the characteristics that I would like to develop in my own life, makes it more likely that those will be the characteristics that will rub off on me.
Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul.
Proverbs 22:24-25, NLT
People tend to become like those with whom they spend a lot of time. Even the negative characteristics sometimes rub off. The Bible exhorts us to be cautious in our choice of companions.
I want to be able to develop desirable characteristics within myself so I avoid spending too much time around angry people and I align myself with the kind of people that appeal to the type person that I want to be.
I can’t recall where I heard this example but here is a little experiment. Think of the top ten people that you associate your self with. Now, combine their income and divide by 10. Chances are that your income is very near that amount. Although this example relates to income, the same can be said for mindset, attitude and characteristics. In fact, it can be used to evaluate practically every aspect of my life, including (and perhaps most importantly) protecting my soul.
I am thankful to be able to recognize and associate with the like minded people I have in my life – from my friends and family through my spiritual study and daily business interaction.
While talking on SKYPE with my middle son, Kody, he stood up and I captured this screen shot. The angel that he is (well, most of the time)!