Who Are You Surrounding Yourself With?

Science backs up what God’s Word has been saying all along — we start to act like the people we hang around with the most.

Their words, habits, and even attitudes can rub off on us without us even realizing it.

Have you ever noticed yourself saying a phrase you couldn’t stand when your friend said it… but now it’s coming out of your mouth? It happens so easily. That’s how influence works — it sneaks in little by little.

One reason for this is something called mirror neurons. God designed our brains with these special nerve cells that “mirror” the actions, tone, and expressions of the people we’re around. It’s how children learn — and it’s why we often find ourselves picking up other people’s habits, for better or for worse.

People need hope. They need someone who speaks life, encourages, and lets God’s light shine through them. That’s part of our calling — to be that person who points others to Him just by the way we live and love.

But here’s the thing — negativity is just as contagious as joy.

If we’re not careful, we can find ourselves picking up the same complaining, gossip, or fear-filled mindset as the people around us.

Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Guarding your heart doesn’t mean cutting people off who need Jesus.

It means being intentional.

Spend time with people, share life, love them — but protect your thoughts.

Be aware of the conversations you’re part of.

Don’t get sucked into the spiral.

And if you notice yourself drifting into old habits or mindsets — step back.

Take it to God. Ask Him to reset your focus and renew your mind (Romans 12:2).

You can be light and love without letting the darkness rub off on you. But it takes staying close to the One who is your source every single day.