“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” ~ Proverbs 18:24
REFERENCE:
Some people cringe when they hear about friendship because friends have once hurt them, so they steer clear of it. However, God designed us for connection and community; so, friendships are vital in our lives. Friends have supported, helped, and given people leverage over the years. Friendship is a good thing, and you need good friends around you. Fostering fulfilling friendships is an asset you need on your life’s journey. To have friends, you must know these:
The Power of Friendship: Friendship can uplift, encourage, and sharpen us. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). For friendship to be fulfilling, seek and surround yourself with friends who inspire and challenge you to grow in your faith and character, who support and encourage you through life’s challenges.
a. Be Genuine/Real: Fulfilling friendships are built on authenticity. Pull off your mask and be yourself to attract people who will love and accept you for who you are. Proverbs 19:7 reveals how the friends of a poor man avoid him; such a friendship is not built on authenticity. Be vulnerable and genuine with your friends; be honest and transparent, sharing joys and struggles. These virtues will strengthen your friendship.
b. Time and Effort: Fostering fulfilling friendships needs planned time and effort. Our main text says if you want to have friends, you must be friendly too – make time to visit, call, give, and remember their special days. Prioritize quality time with your friends and share experiences and conversations with them. Be generous, and be a friend who is present and available.
c. Be loving and Kind: Friendships thrive in an atmosphere of love and kindness. Jesus said in John 15:12, “…love one another as I have loved you.” As Christ has shown you, extend love, grace, and forgiveness to your friends. Be kind, listen, help, and offer them words of encouragement. Let your friendships reflect the love of Christ; let Him be your standard.
Of a truth, supposed friends have hurt people, but we cannot deny that God can also bring a friend who sticks closer than a brother into your life. If you try to avoid friends for fear of being hurt, you inadvertently shut yourself off from friends who can build and support you. If you take the abovementioned things to heart, you can foster fulfilling friendships. I pray that God will make you and give you a friend who sticks closer than a brother. God has got you!
PHOTO QUOTE
ADDITIONAL TEXTS:
Proverbs 17:17, Proverbs 12:26, and Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
PRAYER:
+ Lord, I thank You for the gift of friends in my life and for making me a friend to others.
+ I ask for discernment and grace to foster fruitful and meaningful friendships.
+ May my company of friends be characterized by authenticity, love, and kindness, in Jesus’ name.
