“But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.”
‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭11‬

He tells you what to follow after, what to look out for when making choices and decisions in life- follow after righteousness and righteousness is not dependent on the opinion of any veteran, venerable or layman; God’s word is righteousness. Look out for the fulfillment of God’s word and purpose in the choices that you make.
He says it again:
“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2:22
Follow righteousness… with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart; he emphasizes the importance of associations, your associations can determine the choices you make in life and so do not take them lightly, he even gives you a criteria in choosing friends- those who call on the Lord (Malachi 3:16)- those who are quick to mention and involve the Lord in every matter and they do so, not hypocritically or mockingly but out of a pure heart.
Bible Reading Plan: Esther 2 and 1 Peter 2