How can I be a good friend
The Bible talks quite a bit about friendship, and gives a fairly concrete standard for what a friendship worth having actually looks like.
The Bible talks quite a bit about friendship, and gives a fairly concrete standard for what a friendship worth having actually looks like.
1. A good friend is consistent, not only present when things are easy
Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Real friendship shows up more in hard moments than in easy ones.
2. A good friend tells the truth, even when it is uncomfortable
Proverbs 27:6 says, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” A friend who only tells you what you want to hear is not actually looking out for you.
3. A good friend helps you grow
Proverbs 27:17 uses the image of “iron sharpeneth iron,” the idea that a friend makes you better over time, not just keeps you company.
4. A good friend puts the other person above themselves
John 15:13 says, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” This does not always mean an extreme sacrifice, but it does mean a steady willingness to put the other person first.
5. A good friend forgives and does not keep score
1 Corinthians 13:5 describes love, which also applies to friendship, as something that “thinketh no evil.” Lasting friendships almost always include moments of forgiveness, not just constant agreement.
Being a good friend does not require grand gestures, it is built through small, consistent choices, showing up, telling the truth with care, and forgiving when it is needed.
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