Have you ever noticed how the people closest to you shape the person you’re becoming? The old saying goes, “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future.” That’s why it’s so important to choose relationships that reflect Christ—friendships that point us toward Him and help us live with purpose.
Scripture puts it this way:
- “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13:20
- “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24–25
- “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” – John 13:35
God designed us for community. Who we choose to walk with can either reflect Christ and fuel our calling—or distract us from living with purpose.
The Power of the Right People
Every relationship is shaping us in one direction or another. When we surround ourselves with people who love God, encourage us to live faithfully, and hold us accountable, our lives flourish. Wise friends point us back to the truth when we’re tempted to wander. Godly community strengthens our faith and keeps us on mission when life gets tough.
If you want to grow in wisdom, walk with the wise. If you want to live out your God-given purpose, build friendships that point you to Jesus.
Setting Boundaries in Toxic Friendships
Not all relationships are healthy. Some friendships drain us spiritually, emotionally, or even physically. Maybe you’ve experienced a friend who constantly pulls you into gossip, negativity, or choices that lead you away from Christ.
It’s okay—and often necessary—to set boundaries. Boundaries aren’t unloving; they’re wise. Even Jesus chose His inner circle carefully. He loved the crowds, but He also withdrew often to spend time with His Father and those who truly shared His mission.
When we prayerfully set healthy boundaries, we create space to grow, heal, and keep Christ at the center.
Building Godly Community and Discipleship
Living on purpose means leaning into community, not isolation. Hebrews 10 reminds us not to give up meeting together but to encourage one another and spur each other on. That’s the heartbeat of the Church—discipleship, encouragement, accountability, and love.
Think about discipleship as both a receiving and giving process:
- Being discipled – learning from someone who has walked further in faith than you.
- Discipling others – pouring into those who are newer in their walk with Christ.
When we engage in discipleship, we multiply the mission of Jesus. And when people see the way we love one another, they see Christ in us.
Living with Purpose: Walking It Out
Walking with purpose means walking with the right people. This week, ask yourself: Who am I walking with? Are they drawing me closer to Christ—or further away?
Be intentional about choosing relationships that reflect Christ and fuel your calling. At the same time, commit to being that kind of friend for someone else. When we build godly community, set healthy boundaries, and love one another well, we not only live with purpose—we help advance God’s Kingdom.
As you reflect on the relationships in your life, remember that God has called you to live with purpose, surrounded by people who encourage your faith and point you toward Him. Choose wisely, set healthy boundaries, and lean into the gift of godly community.
👉 Don’t forget to download this week’s free People on Purpose Journal Sheet to help you pause, reflect, and put these truths into practice.
My Prayer for You
Heavenly Father, I lift up the one reading these words. Give them wisdom to choose relationships that draw them closer to You. Surround them with friends who encourage their faith, speak truth in love, and fuel their God-given calling. Where boundaries are needed, give them courage. Where community is needed, open doors. May their life reflect Your love in every connection, pointing others to Jesus. Amen.