1. Why should we select friends carefully?

Most people like to be accepted by others. This desire often makes us imitate those around us. So our friends have a powerful influence on the attitudes that develop in our heart. Thus, our choice of friends can influence the sort of person we will become.​—Read Proverbs 4:23; 13:20.

The inspired Bible writer David selected his friends wisely. He associated with those who helped him keep his integrity as a servant of God. (Psalm 26:4, 5, 11, 12) For example, David enjoyed Jonathan’s friendship because Jonathan encouraged him to trust Jehovah.​—Read 1 Samuel 23:16-18.

4. What if “friends” oppose you?

Many people find that when they start receiving help to understand God’s Word, some of their old friends oppose them. Perhaps such friends do not understand the practical counsel or the sure hope that you have found in the Bible. Maybe you can help them.​—Read Colossians 4:6.

In other cases, “friends” may ridicule the good news presented in God’s Word. (2 Peter 3:3, 4) Some may ridicule your efforts to do what is right. (1 Peter 4:4) If that happens to you, you may have to choose between being their friend and being God’s friend. If you choose to be a friend of God, you will have chosen the best friend anyone can have.​—Read James 4:4, 8.