Build a Connection
“A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” – Proverbs 18:24
How does God define true friendship? It starts with a connection between two people. It is a relationship with several layers: trust, respect, faith, love, and communication.
It’s Not All About You
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Yes, God is a Jealous God. And at times, our actions may reflect selfish attitudes. But in friendship, we are expected to encourage and give of each other. A true friend desires the best for us and our relationship with God.
Our own individual talents and gifts are used by God in unique ways. And as a friend, we should celebrate and appreciate those that are a part of the progression of God’s influence and love in the world.
Invest Time
“Do not forsake your friend and your father’s friend, and do not go to your brother’s house in the day of your calamity. Better is a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away.” – Proverbs 27:10
Our relationship with God takes obedience, daily prayer, and commitment. Precious time is dedicated to growing in faith and sharing our life with God. The same goes for our friendships.
In order for our trust and faith to grow in the people we consider friends, we must invest our time to get to know them.
Discern the Real from the Fake
“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” – Proverbs 13:20
Not all friendships are the same. God teaches us to be careful with the people around us and their influence.
Who we associate ourselves with can lead us down wrong paths, turning us away from God. On the other hand, we can have friends that care and share in our love for the Almighty.
Tell the Truth
“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy.” – Proverbs 27: 5-6
True friendships may involve emotional sacrifices for the betterment of that person’s wellbeing. Telling the truth, even though hurtful, can help friends in the time of need. It shows that despite personal pain, there is a willingness to do what is right in our friendships.
Friendship is Love
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” – John 15:12-15
God is love. And God showed his love and friendship by allowing his son to lay down His life for us.
Could we make the same sacrifice for our friends? In times of sorrow, in happiness; through the trials and tribulations, the celebration and successes – can we stand alongside our friends and be there for support and love them unconditionally? What kind of friend do you want to be?
