What Does The Bible Say About Friendships

What does the Bible say about friendships.

The Bible has numerous insights and teachings on the subject of friendships that can guide our understanding and help us navigate the complexities of human relationships.

I believe it is very important that Christians find Godly believers they can do life with.

You are either around mentors or tormentors. You can find mentors in your local church and develop lasting friendships.

I heard the story of two friends who were out camping in the woods and they woke up one morning. They were having their first cup of coffee when they heard a rustling in the bushes.

Coming toward them at full speed was a very large grizzly bear with a very hungry look on his face. One of the friends quickly started to put on his running shoes. His buddy turned to him and said, “You don’t think you can outrun that grizzly bear do you?”

The man said, “No. I don’t need to. All I have I do is outrun you.”

That is not the type of friend you want in your life.

For instance, take a moment to think about the friendship between David and Jonathan in the Old Testament. It was a remarkable bond that defied societal expectations and showcased the power of true friendship.

But what does the Bible say about friendships? How can we distinguish between godly and worldly friendships? And most importantly, how can we cultivate divine friendships in our own lives?

Let’s explore these questions together and uncover the wisdom that the Bible offers on this fundamental aspect of human connection.

Key Takeaways

• Friendships in the Bible are based on love, trust, and loyalty.
• Godly friendships are rooted in faith and righteousness, while worldly friendships are centered around selfish desires.
• True, biblical friendships are characterized by honesty, accountability, and the ability to trust wounds from a friend.
• Jesus Christ is the ultimate friend who is always there, understands, sacrifices, and gives wise counsel.

Lets dive deeper to see what does the Bible say about friendships.

I. Basis for Friendship in the Bible

The Bible provides a solid foundation for understanding the basis of friendships. It emphasizes the importance of love, trust, and loyalty in forming and maintaining strong friendships.

One of the key verses that highlights this is

Proverbs 17:17, which states, ‘A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.’

This verse teaches us that true friends are those who stand by us through thick and thin, supporting us in times of joy and sorrow. It reminds us that a true friend is someone who’s always there for us, showing us unwavering love and support.

Another important aspect of friendship that the Bible emphasizes is the idea of mutual respect and encouragement.

In Proverbs 27:17, it says, ‘As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.’

This verse teaches us that friends have the ability to inspire and motivate each other to become better individuals. They challenge us to grow and improve, just as iron sharpens iron. This mutual encouragement and support are crucial in building strong and lasting friendships.

The Bible also teaches us about the importance of forgiveness in maintaining healthy friendships. In Matthew 18:21-22, Jesus instructs his disciples to forgive others not just seven times, but seventy-seven times.

This teaches us that forgiveness is a fundamental aspect of friendship. It reminds us that we should be quick to forgive our friends when they make mistakes or hurt us, just as we hope they’ll forgive us when we do the same.

II. Contrast Between Godly and Worldly Friendships

In understanding the contrast between godly and worldly friendships, it’s important to recognize the stark differences in their foundations and priorities.

While godly friendships are built upon a strong faith in God and a shared commitment to living a righteous life, worldly friendships are often centered around worldly desires and self-gratification.

Here are four key distinctions between godly and worldly friendships:

1. Purpose: Godly friendships are rooted in a desire to encourage and support one another in their spiritual journeys, seeking to draw closer to God. In contrast, worldly friendships are often driven by selfish motives, seeking personal gain or pleasure.
2. Influence: Godly friendships have a positive, uplifting influence, encouraging one another to make wise choices and grow in character. Worldly friendships, on the other hand, may lead to negative behaviors, temptations, and compromise of moral values.
3. Accountability: Godly friendships promote accountability, where friends hold each other responsible for their actions and help one another stay on the right path. Worldly friendships lack this level of accountability and may even enable destructive behaviors.
4. Eternal Perspective: Godly friendships focus on eternal matters and strive to build each other up in faith, knowing that their ultimate goal is to honor God and spend eternity with Him. Worldly friendships, however, prioritize temporary pleasures and materialistic pursuits, neglecting the eternal perspective.

III. Qualities of True, Biblical Friendship

To truly understand the qualities of a true, biblical friendship, one must look beyond the contrasting nature of godly and worldly friendships. While it’s important to recognize the differences between these two types of friendships, it’s equally vital to focus on the characteristics that define a genuine, biblical friendship.

First and foremost, a true biblical friendship is built on a foundation of love. In John 15:13, Jesus said, ‘Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ This sacrificial love is what sets biblical friendships apart from worldly friendships, where self-interest often takes precedence.

Additionally, a biblical friendship is characterized by trust and loyalty. Proverbs 17:17 tells us that ‘a friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.’ A true friend stands by you through thick and thin, offering support and encouragement in times of need.

Furthermore, a biblical friendship is marked by honesty and accountability. Proverbs 27:6 states, ‘Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.’ A true friend is willing to speak the truth in love, even if it may be difficult to hear.

IV. Jesus Christ – The Best and Truest Friend

Jesus Christ, the ultimate companion and most authentic confidant, exemplifies the epitome of a true and unwavering friend. Here’s why:

1. He’s always there for you: Jesus promised to never leave or forsake us. In our darkest moments, He’s a constant source of comfort and support.
2. He understands you like no one else: Jesus, being fully human and fully divine, experienced the joys, sorrows, and struggles of life. He can relate to our every emotion and circumstance.
3. He sacrificed everything for you: Jesus demonstrated the depth of His love by laying down His life for us. His selfless act on the cross shows the extent to which He values our friendship.
4. He gives wise counsel: Jesus is the embodiment of wisdom. Through His teachings and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, He provides us with divine wisdom to navigate life’s challenges.

In Jesus, we find a friend who’s dependable, relatable, sacrificial, and wise. He’s the truest and best friend we could ever have. So let’s cherish this friendship and strive to emulate His qualities in our own relationships.

V. Cultivating Divine Friendships

As we explore the topic of cultivating divine friendships, we can build upon the foundation of Jesus Christ’s example as the ultimate friend. Jesus showed us the importance of loving others unconditionally, forgiving them, and sacrificing for their well-being. He demonstrated these qualities by laying down His life for us on the cross.

To cultivate divine friendships, we should strive to imitate Jesus’ love and selflessness. This means being there for our friends in times of need, offering a listening ear, and providing support and encouragement. We should also be willing to forgive and show grace, just as Jesus forgave us.

Furthermore, cultivating divine friendships requires investing time and effort into building strong relationships. This means being intentional about spending quality time with our friends, engaging in meaningful conversations, and creating opportunities for growth and connection. It also involves being vulnerable and transparent, sharing our joys and struggles with one another.

Lastly, cultivating divine friendships involves seeking God’s guidance and wisdom in our relationships. We can do this by praying for our friends, seeking God’s will for our friendships, and aligning our actions with His Word. By following Jesus’ example and relying on God’s guidance, we can cultivate divine friendships that bring glory to Him and bless our lives.

Conclusion

In closing, what’re the key takeaways from cultivating divine friendships? Here are four important lessons to remember:

1. Seek Godly companionship: Surround yourself with friends who share your faith and values. These friendships will provide support, encouragement, and accountability on your spiritual journey.
2. Invest time and effort: Building strong friendships requires intentional effort. Take the time to invest in these relationships by spending quality time together, engaging in meaningful conversations, and supporting one another.
3. Practice forgiveness and grace: Friendships aren’t immune to conflicts and misunderstandings. Learn to forgive and extend grace to your friends, just as God forgives and extends grace to us. Cultivating a forgiving spirit will foster healthier and stronger friendships.
4. Be a friend yourself: Friendship is a two-way street. Be the kind of friend you desire to have. Show love, kindness, and selflessness. Be a good listener, offer support, and be there for your friends in both good times and bad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Okay for Christians to Have Non-Christian Friends?

Yes, it’s okay for Christians to have non-Christian friends. Jesus was friends with sinners and encouraged us to do the same. However, we must be mindful of our own faith and not compromise our beliefs.

How Can I Discern if a Friendship Is Godly or Worldly?

To discern if a friendship is godly or worldly, pay attention to how it aligns with biblical principles. Look for qualities like love, kindness, and encouragement. Pray for wisdom and guidance in choosing friends who will positively influence your spiritual journey.

Can a Person Have Too Many Friendships?

You can have many friendships, but it’s important to prioritize quality over quantity. The Bible emphasizes the value of genuine, godly friendships that encourage spiritual growth and accountability.

Can Bad Friendships in the Bible Teach Us About Healthy Relationships?

The biblical examples of bad friendships, like the one between King Solomon and Rehoboam, can indeed teach us valuable lessons about healthy relationships. By studying these stories, we can gain insight into warning signs, boundaries, and the importance of surrounding ourselves with supportive and positive influences.

What Should I Do if My Friend Is Leading Me Away From My Faith?

If your friend is leading you away from your faith, it’s important to evaluate the situation and prioritize your spiritual well-being. Seek guidance from a trusted mentor or spiritual leader, and consider distancing yourself if necessary.

How Can I Cultivate Friendships That Honor and Glorify God?

To cultivate friendships that honor and glorify God, surround yourself with like-minded believers who will encourage and support you in your faith. Seek opportunities to serve together and hold each other accountable in living out biblical principles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bible provides guidance on the importance of friendships and the qualities that define true, biblical friendships.

In my life I have spent over 20 plus years in church and there were times when I needed my church friends to come and encourage me and pray for me when I am down.

In the year 2023 I got Covid and was sick for close to a month and the people in church sent their prayers as well as Tea and Gatorade to help me through my tough time.

It is so important for you to have Godly Friends in your life.

One interesting statistic that evokes an emotional response is that having strong friendships can increase your lifespan by up to 50%. So, not only do friendships bring joy and support, but they also have a direct impact on our overall well-being.

Let’s cherish and nurture these divine connections in our lives.