There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. – Proverbs 18:24 NLT
Everyone needs friends because God created us as relational beings. He wants us to be friends with Him but also with one another. To be able to connect and share common interests and to be a support source. All relationships have issues because we are often selfish, struggle with sin, or bring in hang-ups from previous relationships or family issues. As Christians, we look to Scripture for direction when seeking how to be a good friend and how to support one another.
Next Steps for Friendship
1. Remember, it takes time and effort to begin a friendship.
2. Be patient with people; we all have different paces.
3. Seek out church group events, look for people to spend time with, and plan on getting to know people there.
4. Make yourself a regular at church, in Bible studies, and serve in a ministry. People warm up to others they spend time with indirectly.
5. Learn about mutual interests and offer to do something they like before you propose something you enjoy. Value others above yourself.
6. Pray for others and spend time in the Word with them.
7. Let things develop naturally. Don’t try too hard.
Below are some Scriptures to help you know what God says about our need to feel close to others through friendship. If you want prayer or to talk about your current friendship situation, feel free to call the pastoral care team at (800) 525-5683.
Additional Scriptures
“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13 NLT
A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need. – Proverbs 17:17 NLT
Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. – Proverbs 27:6 NLT
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NLT
