Now your first thought may be, “Well, the flu is contagious, as is a cold, and certainly COVID, but behavior – I’m not so sure about that.
A recent study, published in the journal “Archives of Sexual Behavior,” found that “surprising factors may push partners toward infidelity – including spending time around others who see cheating as acceptable.” Individuals who were exposed to others infidelity expressed greater vulnerability to seeing their own levels of commitment to their partner as being compromised.
Whether we want to acknowledge it or not, we are influenced by those we hang out with. If my best friend is an avid golfer, I might be influenced to try the sport. “I mean, he’s a smart guy and if he enjoys golf so much, maybe I’m missing out – so, perhaps I will give it a whirl.” In a similar, but more devastating vein, if my best friend, who I believe is a good person, is cheating on his wife, it would be easy for my head to get torqued, trying to make sense of my friend’s behavior. “And if I see him as a “good person,” then surely his behavior can’t be that bad. And if it’s not that bad, then perhaps it’s OK if I cheat on my wife too.”
You can see how easily we can get turned around in our thinking – just by our associations. That is why we have to be on our guard as to who we allow into our lives because their influence is real. As the Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”
If I want to live a life of purpose, it is essential that I surround myself with those who will spur me on in my walk with God. Friends are important, as they will help me stay on track or derail me. Let’s choose our friends wisely!