Good Friends

One of the great joys and blessings in life is the gift of friendship. In creation, God gave that gift when He created Adam and Eve and came to them in the garden to walk and talk together, and fellowship with them. Unknowingly, they had a need, and God fulfilled that need by giving them each other and giving of Himself. That need of special friendship is still present today. People need people.

What makes good friends? Is it appearance, personality, or education? These may help, but the inner qualities of a person – kindness, genuine love, patience, acceptance, willingness to sacrifice, etc., are what make good friends. Jesus Christ is our perfect example. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.  Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you”  (John 15:13,14).

Through the years, Ted and I have been blessed with many good and wonderful friends. We are thankful. I know that I have not always been the friend I should be but the years and experiences have taught me how to be a better friend.

Here are some things I have learned.
May they be of help to you as well.

1. Be Interested in your friend. Listen when she is talking. Learn who she is and what concerns her. Hold your news and concerns until another time. You will get a chance to share (James 1:19).
   
2. Be Generous. Give of your time, talent, and treasures. As you bless others, you will be blessed (Luke 6:38).
   
3. Be Considerate. Respect the opinions of your friends. Do not argue over unimportant things. Do not let petty disagreements ruin your friendship. “A friend loveth at all times” (Proverbs 17:17).
   
4. Be Loyal. Overlook your friend’s faults and hope that she will overlook yours. A true friend is someone who knows you, yet still likes you. If others speak against your friend, stand up for her, be loyal (1 Peter 4:8).
   
5. Be Dependable. Keep your word. Don’t fail in keeping promises and confidences. Not doing so will kill a friendship (Proverbs 16:28; 17:9; Ephesians 4:29).
   
6. Be Courteous. Respect rights and personality of your friends. It is never right to be rude. When wronged, be kind (Philippians 2:3-5).
   
7. Be Truthful. Even if the truth may hurt. A real friend will encourage you to do right. “Faithful are the wounds of a friend” (Proverbs 27:6).
   
8. Be Cheerful, Warm, and Friendly. Smile, be gentle, and positive. Avoid too much negative conversation. Become the giver of good news and joy to the lives of your friends. “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly” (Proverbs 18:24).

The idea of friendship is a scriptural one. It is one of God’s special ways to make our lives more enjoyable and satisfying (Proverbs 27:10; John 15:13-15).

Think about your friendships and examine them by the suggestions above. Do you need to improve? Do you need to make some changes so that you can become a better friend? Do what’s expected, then do a little more!