Koinonia is the Greek word for fellowship. Not only do we fellowship with God, but with people around us as well.
“Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot tempered people, or you will be like them and endanger your soul.” —Proverbs 22:24
The New Testament tells us to love our neighbors. It also urges us to love our enemies. That pretty much encompasses everyone then.
Proverbs often has an unusual twist on wisdom. Proverbs 22:24 is no different.
We have circles of people we associate. A circle of co-workers. Of church friends. Of school friends. Of recreation friends.
This proverbs zeros in on angry people, but really, you can substitute in any group of people in your life whom, truthfully, potentially endangers your soul.
Those who are in our circle can influence our character and soul.
They can encourage us towards God or draw us away. They can make us hungry for the things of God or entice us from wanting the things that please God. They can be a conduit to help us pursue godly endeavors or be a worldly seduction.
We can choose. Satan can only entice. He will study us to find our weaknesses. So that he can introduce people who will hurt our soul. But he can’t choose for us.
Decide your circle carefully. God has placed that choice in your hands. Choose your fellowship well. Koinonia for God’s glory. Koinonia the Real Truth.