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 have a support system through all of life’s ups and downs.
It’s important to remember that all relationships have their challenges because we are often selfish, struggle with sin, or bring in hang-ups from previous relationships or family issues. But that doesn’t mean we should avoid relationships altogether. Instead, as Christians, we look to Scripture for direction when seeking how to be a good friend.
Next Steps for Friendship
1. Remember, it takes time and effort to begin a friendship. So don’t just wait around for friendships to find you, but also don’t expect to be best friends with someone right away.
2. Be patient with people. Friendship involves trust, and not everyone develops trust at the same pace.
3. Seek out church group events, look for people to spend time with, and plan on getting to know people there. The easiest way to make a friend is to be a friend!
4. Make yourself a regular at church and in Bible studies, and find a ministry to serve in that aligns with your spiritual gifts.
5. Learn about mutual interests and offer to do something they like before you propose something you enjoy. Value others above yourself.
6. Regularly pray for others and spend time in the Word with them. You can also pray for friends! God cares about every single part of your life, so you can absolutely bring your desire for strong friendships to Him in prayer.
7. Let things develop naturally. Don’t put pressure on yourself or the other person.
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. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 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
