Bible Verses About Choosing Friends (KJV)

Friendship is one of life’s greatest blessings—but it can also be one of its greatest influences. The people we surround ourselves with shape our character, decisions, and even our spiritual walk. The Bible has a lot to say about choosing friends wisely, and the King James Version (KJV) offers timeless wisdom that still applies today.

In this post, we’ll explore powerful Bible verses about choosing friends (KJV), what they mean, and how you can apply them in your daily life.

Why Choosing the Right Friends Matters

Friendships are not just social connections—they are spiritual influences. Whether positive or negative, the people closest to us affect:

• Our values
• Our habits
• Our attitudes
• Our faith

The Bible warns us that poor choices in friendships can lead us down the wrong path, while godly friends can strengthen and uplift us.

Let’s explore what Scripture teaches.

1. Choose Friends Who Influence You Positively

One of the most well-known Bible verses about friendship warns against negative influence:

“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” — 1 Corinthians 15:33 (KJV)

This verse reminds us that bad company can corrupt good character. Even if you have strong values, constant exposure to negative influences can weaken your convictions over time.

What This Means for You:

• Avoid relationships that consistently pull you away from your faith.
• Be cautious of friends who encourage sinful behavior.
• Seek companions who challenge you to grow spiritually.

Your environment matters more than you think.

2. Look for Loyal and Trustworthy Friends

Loyalty is a priceless trait in friendship. The Bible highlights this beautifully:

“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” — Proverbs 17:17 (KJV)

True friends don’t disappear when life gets difficult. They stand by you in hardship, offering support and prayer when you need it most.

Characteristics of a Loyal Friend:

• Stays during tough times
• Speaks truth even when it’s hard
• Keeps confidences
• Prays for you

Choosing friends who reflect these qualities strengthens your emotional and spiritual well-being.

3. Avoid Friendships Rooted in Anger

Temperament significantly affects relationships. The Bible gives a clear warning about forming close ties with angry individuals:

“Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.” — Proverbs 22:24–25 (KJV)

Anger can be contagious. Spending time with someone who constantly reacts in rage or bitterness may gradually influence your own behavior.

Practical Wisdom:

• Observe how potential friends handle conflict.
• Avoid close bonds with those who thrive on drama.
• Seek friends who demonstrate self-control.

Peaceful friendships cultivate peaceful lives.

4. Choose Friends Who Offer Wise Counsel

Good friends don’t just comfort—they correct and guide.

“Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.” — Proverbs 27:9 (KJV)

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” — Proverbs 27:6 (KJV)

Sometimes the best friend is the one who lovingly tells you the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.

A Wise Friend Will:

• Offer biblical advice
• Hold you accountable
• Care about your spiritual growth
• Encourage wise decisions

Surround yourself with people who sharpen your faith, not just soothe your feelings.

5. Seek Friends Who Strengthen Your Faith

Iron sharpens iron—this powerful imagery captures how friendships should function:

“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” — Proverbs 27:17 (KJV)

Healthy friendships help you grow. They inspire better habits, stronger faith, and clearer purpose.

Ask yourself:

• Do my friends encourage prayer and Bible study?
• Do we uplift each other spiritually?
• Are we moving closer to God together?

Friendships centered on faith produce lasting blessings.

6. Be the Right Kind of Friend

While choosing friends wisely is important, the Bible also calls us to be the right kind of friend.

Jesus Himself demonstrated the ultimate model of friendship:

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13 (KJV)

True friendship reflects sacrifice, kindness, loyalty, and love.

How to Be a Godly Friend:

• Practice forgiveness
• Show consistent support
• Speak truth with love
• Pray faithfully for others
• Lead by example

When you embody biblical friendship, you naturally attract the right people into your life.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Friends God’s Way

The Bible makes it clear—friendship is powerful. Choosing friends wisely can lead to spiritual growth, emotional strength, and a life aligned with God’s will. Choosing poorly can lead to regret and spiritual drift.

As you reflect on these Bible verses about choosing friends (KJV), remember:

• Surround yourself with those who strengthen your faith.
• Avoid relationships that pull you away from God.
• Seek loyalty, wisdom, and righteousness.
• Strive to be the kind of friend Scripture describes.

Friendship is a gift—but it’s also a responsibility. Choose wisely, pray intentionally, and trust God to place the right people in your path.

If you’re asking God for better friendships, start by becoming the friend you hope to find.