It is imperative to select friends judiciously, as not all individuals may have your well-being in mind. As stated in Proverbs 12:26, “The righteous carefully choose their companions.” Remaining vigilant and prayerful in selecting those within your inner circle is advised.
In John 6:70, Jesus remarked, “Did I not choose you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!” While it is undeniable that there are friends who offer unwavering loyalty, it is crucial to acknowledge the existence of individuals who may betray you when least expected, despite appearing to be akin to a sibling.
Jesus elevated Peter above the other disciples, yet Peter still denied him three times. Fortunately, Jesus foresaw this betrayal due to his gift of discernment. In 1 Corinthians 12, it is mentioned that there are nine gifts of the spirit, with the spirit of discernment being perhaps the most important when selecting those closest to you.
This ability to discern will help you differentiate between true allies and potential foes. Make wise choices when forming your inner circle, as not everyone has your best interests at heart.