Many people know the story of Jonah. A guy that was on the run from the purposes of God and ended up being thrown over board and a large fish swallowed him for 3 days.
Have you ever thought of the sailors on board with Jonah? Decent guys trying to make a living. Experienced sailors who know what it is to make it through difficult storms. Yet, when Jonah is in their boat, they are going to drown.
Less people will know the story of Paul. A guy pursuing the purposes of God and ended up shipwrecked.
When we think of the sailors on Paul’s boat however we have a totally different scenario. The sailors on Paul’s boat were encouraged that they would reach dry land safely because Paul was on board. And they did.
What we can learn from this is there is immense importance in the power of association.
If you are in Jonah’s boat then you are going down. No matter how diligent you are, you’ll sink unless you deal with the issue at hand. If you are in Paul’s boat, no matter the severity of the storm, you will make it through to dry ground.
The bible clearly states that ‘Bad company corrupts good character’ (1 Corinthians 15:33). It also reveals that ‘Iron sharpens iron’ (Proverbs 27:17). I have learnt that biblical principles definitely work.
Who we hang out with matters. Who we allow to advise us, or speak into our life, matters. Who’s boat we are in has a significant effect on the outcome of our journey.
As we approach 2012, my encouragement is that if you are desiring a significant year, hang around significant people! If you are wanting a successful year, get into a position where you are with successful people. Who you are with has a significant outcome of your journey.
Whether it be relationships, employment, housing, communities or groups that you belong to, please consider the outcome of your journey. Do you want to confidently reach dry ground or be on course to drown?
Your 2012 will be an excellent year if you consider who you hang out with, do life with, are inspired by. Get with people who will do you good.
It sounds simple.
It is.
The people in your world matter. Choose wisely. Influence correctly. 2012 is set to be a great year. Happy New Year.
