As I’ve walked with God over the years, one truth has become increasingly clear to me: the people God places in your life can either propel you toward your destiny or pull you away from it. I remember counselling a young woman some years ago who was struggling in her faith. As we talked, it became evident that her closest friends were pulling her in directions contrary to God’s purpose for her life. When she finally made the difficult decision to change her associations, her spiritual life flourished in ways she never thought possible.

This principle is not new—it’s woven throughout Scripture. The Bible consistently shows us that God uses strategic relationships to shape us and extend His Kingdom.

Proverbs 27:17
New King James Version
17 As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.

Notice what is says here—iron sharpening iron. This isn’t a gentle, passive process. It involves friction, pressure, and heat. Divine associations aren’t merely about comfort; they’re about transformation. When God brings someone into your life who challenges you, who pushes you to grow, who isn’t afraid to speak truth in love—that person is a gift from heaven.

Consider David and Jonathan, whose friendship transcended natural boundaries and political expectations:

1 Samuel 18:1
New King James Version
1 Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.

Their connection wasn’t just emotional—it was spiritual. Their souls were knit together. Jonathan strengthened David’s hand in the Lord during David’s darkest moments, and David’s life was preserved through this divine association.

Or think about Paul and Timothy

Philippians 2:19-22
New King James Version
19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state.

20 For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state.

21 For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus.

22 But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel.

Paul mentored Timothy, and Timothy served faithfully with Paul. Through this relationship, both were strengthened, and the gospel advanced. Their partnership wasn’t accidental—it was divinely orchestrated for Kingdom purposes.

But here’s the sobering truth: just as the right associations can elevate you, the wrong ones can diminish you.

1 Corinthians 15:33
New King James Version
33 Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”*

This verse isn’t suggesting isolation; it’s advocating discernment. Not everyone deserves the same level of access and influence in your life. Some people are assigned by God to help you fulfill your purpose; others may actually hinder you from reaching your divine potential.

The truth is, your destiny is too precious to be left to chance encounters and convenient connections. God has specific people ordained to walk with you, to challenge you, to support you, and to bring out the best in you.

These divine associations aren’t always comfortable. Sometimes the person God sends will stretch you, correct you, or push you beyond your perceived limitations. But these relationships are essential for your growth and effectiveness in the Kingdom.

As you fast today, I want you to prayerfully consider your associations. Are you surrounded by people who sharpen you spiritually? Do you have relationships that inspire you to greater heights in God? Are there mentors and friends in your life who aren’t afraid to speak truth when you need to hear it?

If not, today is the day to pray for divine connections. Ask God to bring the right people into your life—those who will call forth your gifts, challenge your limitations, and partner with you for Kingdom impact.

Make this confession:

I discern divine associations from mere acquaintances. I am positioned in relationships that sharpen me spiritually and propel me toward my destiny. Through these God-ordained connections, I will have greater impact for the Kingdom than I could ever have alone.

Remember, your associations today will influence who you become tomorrow. Choose wisely, pray fervently, and trust God to connect you with those who will bring out the best within you.

Prayer Point: Father, as I pray today, I ask You to order my steps into divine relationships. Connect me with people who will sharpen me spiritually and help fulfill Your purpose for my life. Give me discernment to recognize heaven-sent associations. Through these relationships, I will accomplish more for Your glory.

With love,
The Catalyst,
Pastor Michael Ipaye