APRIL 3 - Who’s In Your Circle?

3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 13:17-18; Mark 3

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“A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful envoy brings healing. Poverty and disgrace come to him who ignores instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is honored.” — Proverbs 13:17–18

“And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach.” — Mark 3:14

“And looking about at those who sat around him, he said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother.’” — Mark 3:34–35

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Have you ever thought about the people you spend the most time with? Whether it’s your closest friends, teammates, or even your family, your circle matters. In Mark 3, Jesus carefully chose the twelve disciples—not just to follow Him, but to be with Him, learn from Him, and be sent out for a purpose. And later, when people told Him His family was outside, He pointed to those doing God’s will and called them His true family. That’s a huge deal—Jesus redefined family as those who follow and obey God.

Meanwhile, Proverbs 13:17-18 reminds us that who we listen to and what we do with correction can shape our future. A “faithful envoy” or trustworthy messenger brings healing. But ignoring advice or instruction leads to trouble. That means choosing to surround ourselves with people who tell us the truth, encourage our faith, and challenge us to grow can actually lead to honor and blessing.

So here’s the question: Are the people around you helping you get closer to Jesus—or pulling you away? Are you becoming someone others can count on to bring truth, healing, and encouragement?

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THINK ABOUT IT

BOTTOM LINE

Surround yourself with people who help you follow Jesus, and be the kind of person others can trust to speak truth and bring healing.

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PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life. Help me to build strong, Christ-centered relationships and be someone who brings encouragement and truth. Teach me to listen to correction and grow from it, just like You want me to. I want to be part of Your family—someone who does Your will. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.