Friendship is one of the greatest gifts God has given us. The Bible offers guidance on how to be a good friend and how to value those relationships. Today, we will talk about what the Bible says about friendship and how we can live as true friends to others.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Being A Deacon
What Does The Bible Say About Being A Friend
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of true friendship that endures through all circumstances. A genuine friend loves unconditionally and remains loyal and supportive, especially in times of hardship. True friendships are like family, offering comfort, encouragement, and strength during difficult times.
Proverbs 18:24
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
This verse warns about the consequences of having unreliable friends who ultimately lead to destruction. However, it also highlights the blessing of finding a faithful friend who is even more reliable and loyal than a blood relative. Such a friend brings stability, trust, and enduring companionship.
John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”
In this verse, Jesus exemplifies the ultimate expression of friendship through self-sacrifice. His love for us was so great that He willingly gave His life for our salvation. It serves as a model for selfless and sacrificial love in our own friendships.
Proverbs 27:9
“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”
This verse compares the refreshing fragrance of perfume and incense to the joy that comes from a true friend’s heartfelt advice. A genuine friend offers wise counsel, guidance, and support that brings comfort, joy, and growth to our lives.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse illustrates the impact of friendship on personal growth and character development. Just as iron blades become sharper through friction, true friends sharpen one another through meaningful conversations, constructive criticism, and mutual encouragement.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing friendships wisely. Associating with wise and godly people helps us grow in wisdom and knowledge. On the other hand, being closely connected to fools leads to negative consequences and harm. Surrounding ourselves with wise friends is vital for our own well-being.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
This passage highlights the strength and support that comes from friendship. Working together with a companion not only increases productivity but also provides mutual assistance and encouragement during times of difficulty. It emphasizes the importance of having someone to lean on and help us navigate life’s challenges.
1 Samuel 18:1
“After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.”
This verse portrays an incredible example of a deep and selfless friendship between David and Jonathan. Their souls were knit together, and Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself. It demonstrates the profound bond that genuine friends can share.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This verse highlights the importance of true friends who are willing to give honest and constructive criticism, even if it may cause temporary discomfort or pain. Wounds from a trustworthy friend are valuable and beneficial, contrasting the deceitful flattery of an enemy.
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
This passage advises against forming close friendships with individuals who are quick to anger and have a hot temper. Such friendships can have a negative influence on our own personalities and actions, potentially leading us down destructive paths. It reminds us to choose friends who embody positive character traits.
Proverbs 27:5-6
“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted.”
This verse emphasizes the value and trustworthiness of a friend’s constructive criticism or rebuke. It is better for a friend to openly express love by offering correction or guidance rather than maintaining silence. They may bring temporary wounds, but these wounds help us grow and become better people.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
This verse urges believers to actively encourage and support one another. True friends lift each other up, offering words of affirmation, motivation, and genuine care. Through their actions, they inspire others to keep growing in their faith and pursuing their God-given purpose.
James 4:8
“Come near to God and he will come near to you.”
This verse reminds us that true friendship begins with drawing near to God. As we deepen our relationship with Him, we experience His presence, guidance, and love. Having a close friendship with God not only transforms our own lives but also equips us to be better friends to others.
Psalm 133:1
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
This verse highlights the beauty and joy of friendship within the community of believers. When Christians live in harmony, supporting and loving one another, it reflects God’s heart and brings blessings to all involved. Unity in friendships creates an atmosphere of peace and comfort in our lives.
Proverbs 27:10
“Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you—better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of being there for our friends and even extending our support to their family members when they are in need. In times of trouble, having a friend nearby who can offer immediate help and comfort is far more valuable than distant relatives.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse cautions believers against associating with individuals who have a negative and corrupting influence. Our friendships greatly impact our character and behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to choose friends who align with our values and encourage us to grow in godliness.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse warns against the harmful effects of gossip and the divisive nature of a perverse individual. Engaging in gossip causes strife and leads to the breakdown of close friendships. It reminds us to guard our tongues and maintain trust and loyalty in our relationships.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This verse highlights the importance of intentionally selecting friends who share our commitment to righteousness and godliness. Our friendships shape our journey, and choosing godly companions enables us to remain on the right path, avoiding the pitfalls of wickedness and sin.
Proverbs 27:19
“As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.”
This verse serves as a reminder that our lives and character are a reflection of our hearts. It implies that true friends see beyond external appearances and value the inner beauty and qualities of a person. It encourages us to cultivate a heart that reflects godly virtues and attracts genuine friendships.
Proverbs 27:10
“Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you—better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of being there for our friends and even extending our support to their family members when they are in need. In times of trouble, having a friend nearby who can offer immediate help and comfort is far more valuable than distant relatives.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse cautions believers against associating with individuals who have a negative and corrupting influence. Our friendships greatly impact our character and behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to choose friends who align with our values and encourage us to grow in godliness.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse warns against the harmful effects of gossip and the divisive nature of a perverse individual. Engaging in gossip causes strife and leads to the breakdown of close friendships. It reminds us to guard our tongues and maintain trust and loyalty in our relationships.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This verse highlights the importance of intentionally selecting friends who share our commitment to righteousness and godliness. Our friendships shape our journey, and choosing godly companions enables us to remain on the right path, avoiding the pitfalls of wickedness and sin.
Proverbs 27:19
“As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.”
This verse serves as a reminder that our lives and character are a reflection of our hearts. It implies that true friends see beyond external appearances and value the inner beauty and qualities of a person. It encourages us to cultivate a heart that reflects godly virtues and attracts genuine friendships.