Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
    or sit in the company of mockers,
but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
    and who meditates on his law day and night.

These first two verses from Psalm 1 give us great insight into how to surround ourselves in good ways. The people that you surround yourself with will undoubtedly have huge influence on your life. Are you surrounding yourself with the Lord, and people who point you to the Lord, or with mockers and the wicked?

You may not be able to choose your family or your co-workers, but you have more power over the people surrounding you than you may initially think.

Surround yourself with the Lord

A daily quiet time with Scripture reading, prayer, and silent meditation before the Lord is a wonderful way to surround yourself with the right things. You will find yourself thinking differently, acting differently, and as the Holy Spirit speaks to you, you will become more joyful, kind, patient, and peaceful (Galatians 5:22). Immerse yourself in God’s Word. When you encounter things that you dislike or are confused by, ask Him about it and listen for his response. There is no question that He will meet you, though it may not be in the way you expect (Isaiah 55:8). Listen for his response. There is no one who will have a more positive impact on your life than Jesus.

Surround yourself with the right people

Consider how your friends, family, and co-workers speak to you and act toward themselves and others. Are they encouraging, helpful, and wise? Do they love well (Colossians 3:12-14)? We are created for community, and the community we select will lead us in a direction. Take time to consider your friends’ actual words, actions, beliefs, and the activities you engage in together. Are these the things you want defining your life?   You may also want to think about the influence of the larger community you are a part of: your social media friends, the media/entertainment that you listen to and watch, your pastor and available small groups in the church. Are you surrounding yourself with the things of God, or the things of the world?

You may find it helpful to take some time reflecting on the following Scriptures which speak to the influence others have on us:
Psalm 1
Proverbs 3, and 10:23-25, 14:7-9
Isaiah 55
John 15