Who Do You Spend Your Time With? A Journey Towards Self-Love and Biblical Truth

LIFESTYLE

a pink flower sitting on top of a body of water
a pink flower sitting on top of a body of water

The Company We Keep

As I sit here sipping my morning coffee, I can't help but think about the people I spend the most time with. If I'm being honest, some days I feel like I have a full-time job managing my social life! From family gatherings to book club meetings, the folks I surround myself with significantly influence my mindset and self-worth.

Reflecting on Biblical Truths

In my journey as a Christian woman in my 30s (okay, maybe I've hit the big 4-0), I’ve often turned to the Bible for guidance. One passage that resonates deeply with me is Proverbs 27:17 - "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." This verse reminds me that the people around us can either elevate our spirits or drag us down, much like a good cup of coffee keeps me energized for the day ahead!

Treating Yourself with Love

But what about how we treat ourselves in the midst of it all? If we’re constantly surrounded by negativity, it can warp our perception of self-worth. The Bible encourages us to love ourselves. In Mark 12:31, Jesus says, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." That little bit of wisdom implies we must love ourselves first, which is sometimes easier said than done. Have you ever caught yourself saying harsh things about your appearance or skills? Trust me, I’ve been there! But here’s the thing: if we want to shine brightly in our friendships and communities, we must first see our own value.

Here comes the funny part: imagine treating yourself like your best friend. If she walked in feeling down about her looks, you'd probably grab her favorite ice cream and tell her she's beautiful, right? So, why not do that for ourselves? Next time I catch a glimpse in the mirror, I’ll channel my inner cheerleader, using my favorite scripture, Psalm 139:14, which reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made!

Building a Supportive Circle

When I reflect on who I spend my time with, I strive to surround myself with uplifting individuals who inspire me to do better. Life’s too short for drama queens and negative Nancys! Instead, let’s build a support circle filled with genuine friends who remind us of our worth, as outlined in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 - "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up…" Let’s become each other’s cheerleaders over coffee, laughter, and the occasional silly meme sharing!

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, it’s all about balance. Surrounding ourselves with great company while treating ourselves with kindness can change our perspectives. So, instead of asking, "Who do I spend my time with?" maybe we should ask, "How do I spend my time loving myself?" Let’s keep the discussions light, the friendships strong, and always stay fabulously grounded in the teachings of our faith!