Televangelist HB Morgan Digital Library Publications Christianity Today ✝️ Devotional Companion CHOOSING THE RIGHT INFLUENCES Scripture Reading: Joshua 1:8 (NIV) "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful." God desires His children to live lives of purpose, fruitfulness, and success. Success, when pursued according to God's Word, is not sinful. It is the result of walking in obedience to His principles. Therefore, do not fear success; instead, seek to honor God with every blessing and opportunity He entrusts to you. In our previous devotional, we learned that success follows divine principles, just as every recipe contains instructions for producing a desired result. We also discovered that one of the first steps toward success is being willing to change your environment when necessary. Today, we consider another vital principle: choose your associations wisely. The people you spend the most time with have a significant influence on your thinking, decisions, attitudes, and future. Your friendships can either strengthen your walk with God and move you toward your destiny or distract you from His purpose for your life. The Bible gives this wise counsel: Proverbs 22:24 (KJV) "Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go." The Scriptures also remind us that bad company corrupts good character. If you desire to fulfill God's purpose and walk in lasting success, be intentional about the relationships you cultivate. Surround yourself with people who encourage your faith, challenge you to grow, and inspire you to pursue God's will. Choose your friends carefully, and never allow negative influences to determine the direction of your life. Wisdom in choosing your companions is wisdom for success. Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that guides my life. Grant me wisdom to choose relationships that strengthen my faith and align with Your purpose for me. Help me to make decisions that position me for the success You have prepared for me, and may my life always bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen. Bible Reading: Proverbs 14:20; 16:28; 17:9; 18:24 Wisdom Capsule: Proverbs 3:2 (MSG) "They’ll help you live a long, long time, a long life lived full and well."