There are so many temptations we encounter as we strive to lead a life of integrity. One of the greatest influences we have for determining the way we live our lives is the group of people with whom we choose to surround ourselves. The fact is, we tend to become like the environment in which we live. The last line of George Orwell’s Animal Farm is stunning – “The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which.”

As you spend time with people, you may adopt their styles, values, and their decision-making processes. If you associate with unethical people, you may find yourself progressively struggling with ethical decisions. If you surround yourself with men and women of Godly character, you will find the ethical path much easier to navigate.

You probably know this and apply it to the people you befriend, but don’t stop there. Join companies, work groups, and social groups that are made up of people with integrity. And, if you own your own business, only hire people with solid character. Include your suppliers, your advertising agency, and your accounting firm on that list. As much as you can, surround yourself with people of integrity and you will find it easier to follow the guidelines that God has set for us in His Word.