A few words of wisdom from Dr. Stephen R Cook on close associates and friends.
Close relationships should be developed over time, only as we get to know others, hearing their words and watching their ways, and feeling confident they are among the faithful righteous. Some of the characteristics of a righteous person include:
- A commitment to learning God’s Word (Psalm 1:1-2; Acts 2:42; Romans 6:17).
- Submitting to God’s will (Romans 12:1-2; James 1:22).
- Confessing sin to God daily (1 John 1:9).
- Displaying Christian love (John 13:34; Romans 13:8; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a).
- Seeking to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
- Living by faith in order to please the Lord (Hebrews 10:38; 11:6; 2 Corinthians 5:9).
- Speaking biblical truth in love (Ephesians 4:15, 25).
- Modeling humility, gentleness, patience, tolerance and peace (Ephesians 4:1-3).
- Being forgiving (Matthew 18:21-22).
- Doing good (Galatians 6:10).
- Encouraging other believers to do good (Hebrews 10:24).
- Desiring fellowship with growing believers (Hebrews 10:25).
- Praying for others (1 Thessalonians 5:17; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; James 5:16).
- Building others up in the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
- Being devoted to fellow believers (Romans 12:10).
Choose the righteous life, and choose your friends wisely.
Dr. Steven R. Cook