THE RIGHT PEOPLE.

 

Key scripture. 

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another” proverbs 27:17

Hebrew 12:1 

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,

 

• The right people can help shape the course of our lives both in the present and into eternity. 

• God designed us for community, and throughout the Bible, we see many examples of relationships that had a profound impact on people's lives.

• You are a result of many influences in your life but one of the key influences are the people who surround and influence you. 

 

Some key scripture. 

1. "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

— Proverbs 27:17
This timeless proverb underscores the idea that the right people in our lives help us grow, become better, and stay focused on what truly matters.

2. "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."

— Proverbs 13:20
Choosing wise companions helps us grow in wisdom and avoid pitfalls.

3. “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’”

— 1 Corinthians 15:33
Paul warns that the people we associate with can have a profound impact on our character and faith, emphasizing the importance of surrounding ourselves with those who encourage godliness.

 

4. A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

 

5. Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;

Psalms 1:1 

 

6. A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

        Proverbs 17:17

 

Quotes on the people we surround ourselves with.

 

1. "The people we choose to surround ourselves with can either lift us closer to God or pull us further from Him."

— Unknown
This quote emphasizes the profound influence others can have on our spiritual walk and the importance of choosing people who draw us nearer to our faith.

 

2. “God uses people to shape us, guide us, and help us fulfill His purpose. The right people in our lives are divine appointments.”

— Christine Caine
Christine Caine’s quote highlights the idea that God orchestrates relationships in our lives, bringing people who will encourage us and guide us toward His greater purpose.

 

3. “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

— Jim Rohn
While this quote is often attributed to motivational speaker Jim Rohn, it echoes a biblical truth. Our relationships deeply influence our character, decisions, and outcomes in life, including our spiritual journey.

These quotes speak to how the right people are more than just companions—they can be catalysts for growth, encouragement, and divine fulfillment in our lives. What do you think of these perspectives?

 

4. "Surround yourself with those who help you see the beauty of God's plan for your life."

— Unknown
This quote emphasizes the importance of choosing people who help us see God’s purpose for us clearly, especially during times of uncertainty or struggle.

 

5. "The right people are not those who always agree with you, but those who help you grow into the person God created you to be."

— Unknown
This speaks to the fact that sometimes the right people challenge us, stretch us, and encourage us to step into God’s calling, even if it’s uncomfortable or difficult.

These quotes remind us that relationships aren’t just about comfort, but about growth and alignment with God's greater purpose. Do any of these resonate deeply with where you are in your life right now?

 

EXAMPLE FROM SCRIPTURE ON RIGHT PEOPLE.

 

Here are a few biblical examples where the right people made a significant difference:

 

1. Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1-4)

Ruth’s relationship with Naomi is a powerful example of the right people having an eternal impact. Naomi, though initially in a place of bitterness and grief, was a godly influence on Ruth. Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi led her to leave her homeland and follow Naomi to Israel, where she later became the great-grandmother of King David (and part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ). Ruth’s decision to stay close to Naomi and learn from her was pivotal not only in her own life but in God’s larger plan for Israel.

 

Key point: The influence of a godly mentor can shape our future and even play a role in God's eternal plan.

 

2. David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 18-20)

David and Jonathan's friendship is one of the Bible's most beautiful examples of how the right people in your life can support you and strengthen your faith. Jonathan, the son of King Saul, could have easily viewed David as a threat to his throne, but instead, he became David’s friend and protector. Their bond was based on deep loyalty, love, and mutual respect. Jonathan’s encouragement and selflessness helped David remain steadfast in his trust in God, even when facing tremendous adversity.

 

Key point: A true friend who supports you spiritually and emotionally can help you remain faithful, even in the most difficult times.

 

3. Paul and Timothy (Acts 16:1-3, 2 Timothy 1:2-5)

The relationship between Paul and Timothy is another example of the importance of mentorship and spiritual guidance. Paul poured into Timothy, guiding him in his faith and entrusting him with leadership in the early church. In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul recalls how Timothy’s sincere faith was passed down from his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. The faith and wisdom Timothy received from those around him, particularly Paul, equipped him to continue the work of the gospel and to lead others.

 

Key point: The right mentor can help nurture your spiritual growth and prepare you for the work God has for you.

 

4. Jesus and His Disciples (Matthew 4:18-20, John 15:15-17)

Jesus modeled the perfect example of relationships. He called twelve men to follow Him, not only to teach them but to invest deeply in their lives. Through His intentional relationship with them, He trained them, corrected them, and prepared them for their mission to spread the gospel. Even in moments when they failed or doubted, Jesus’s patient guidance was instrumental in shaping their future roles in the kingdom of God.

 

Key point: Jesus chose to invest in specific individuals, knowing that their lives and their obedience would ripple out to impact eternity. The people we invest in and are invested in by can shape our spiritual legacy.

 

5. Moses and Aaron (Exodus 4:14-16, 17:8-13)

Moses had Aaron as a supportive brother and partner in his mission to free the Israelites from Egypt. When Moses struggled with his calling or felt inadequate, Aaron was there to help speak for him, offer encouragement, and stand alongside him in challenging moments. Together, they led the Israelites through difficult seasons. Their partnership demonstrates the strength that comes from having the right people standing with you in God's work.

 

Key point: The right person can provide needed support when we feel overwhelmed or insufficient for the task God has called us to.

 

6. Elijah and Elisha (1 Kings 19:19-21, 2 Kings 2:9-15)

Elijah, a prophet of God, found a successor in Elisha, and their relationship was key to continuing the prophetic work in Israel. Elisha served Elijah faithfully, and when the time came for Elijah to be taken up to heaven, Elisha requested a double portion of his spirit (2 Kings 2:9). God granted Elisha this request, and he went on to perform even greater miracles than Elijah. Elisha’s close relationship with Elijah was critical to his spiritual growth and the continuation of God’s work in Israel.

 

Key point: Sometimes the right person in your life is someone to whom you can pass on wisdom and purpose, ensuring that God’s work continues through generations.

 

Prayer point:

 

1. “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another” proverbs 27:17. Pray for the right people to sharpen your life. 

 

1. A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17. Let us pray for a friend that loves at all times. A friend that is closer than a brother.

 

3. The three level of relationships use the exploit Jesus. Pray for the 3 levels of relationship around your life, ministry, workplace, business, community etc. 

 

A. The 72 other disciples. "After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’" (Luke 10:1-2, NIV)

 

B. The 12 disciples. 

"In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles: Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew; and James and his brother John; and Philip and Bartholomew; and Matthew and Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon who was called the Zealot; and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor."

(Luke 6:12-16, ESV)

 

B. The 3 close disciples Peter, James & John. 

 

The three close disciples of Jesus, often referred to as His inner circle, were Peter, James, and John. These three were selected by Jesus to witness some of the most significant events in His ministry, moments where He sought deeper companionship and support.

 

Key Moments with the Three:

1. The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-9): Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain where He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun while His clothes became white as light. They saw Moses and Elijah appear, and God the Father spoke from a cloud, affirming Jesus as His Son.

2. The Agony in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46): When Jesus was praying in the Garden of Gethsemane before His arrest, He took these three disciples with Him and asked them to pray and stay awake. While they fell asleep, this moment showed Jesus' deep vulnerability and need for support during His darkest hour.

3. The Crucifixion (John 19:25-27): At the cross, while many of His disciples had fled, John remained with Jesus. Jesus entrusted His mother Mary to John’s care, demonstrating a deep bond of love and trust.

4. Jesus raising Jairus daughter. Mark 5:35-43, Jesus took Peter, James, and John—the three closest disciples—along with Him when He went to raise Jairus' daughter from the dead. Here's the passage: