35 Important Bible Verses About Friendship Open Bible (With Commentary)

Proverbs 27:17

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17

Friendships are meant to challenge and encourage us to be better. In a Christian context, true friends help us grow in our faith, refining our character and guiding us closer to God. This verse portrays friendships as a tool for mutual growth.

John 15:15

“I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” – John 15:15

In this verse, Jesus reveals His desire for a deep friendship with us. He considers us His friends, inviting us into a relationship that is intimate and revealing. This friendship carries a promise of shared knowledge and closeness with God.

The Value of Loyalty in Friendship

Loyalty is a key element that defines a true friend. In our faith-based friendships, we must cultivate loyalty, standing by our friends through thick and thin. Just as God remains faithful to us, we are called to exhibit the same loyalty toward our friends. These verses will teach us the significance of being steadfast in our relationships and how to be true friends who honor the commitments we make.

Proverbs 18:24

“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” – Proverbs 18:24

This verse highlights the importance of loyalty in friendships. We might find friends who are fickle, but a loyal friend is invaluable. Such friends support us when we face challenges and are worth cherishing.

Psalm 41:9

“Even my close friend, whom I trusted, who shared my bread, has turned against me.” – Psalm 41:9

In moments of betrayal, we learn that even friends can let us down. This verse reminds us of the need for discernment in choosing whom to trust fully, while encouraging us to work towards being the loyal friends that withstand storms together.

Luke 6:31

“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Luke 6:31

This timeless principle guides loyalty in friendships. Each of us desires loyalty and kindness from our friends. Therefore, seeking to be the friend who treats others with respect and care will cultivate strong connections.

1 Samuel 18:1

“After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.” – 1 Samuel 18:1

This verse illustrates a beautiful bond of loyalty between David and Jonathan. Their deep friendship serves as an example of how friends can love and support each other wholeheartedly.

Proverbs 27:6

“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” – Proverbs 27:6

True friends tell us the truth even when it may hurt, as they genuinely care about our growth. This verse teaches us that loyal friends are willing to speak candidly, even in uncomfortable situations, valuing our well-being above their comfort.

Encouragement Between Friends

Encouragement is fundamental to maintaining healthy friendships. As friends, we can uplift and inspire each other through our words and actions. The Bible teaches us that encouraging one another is a vital aspect of friendship that helps us grow closer to God. These verses will inspire us to be the kind of friends who offer support and lift each other up in love.

Hebrews 10:24-25

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25

This passage encourages us to be proactive in encouraging our friends. Regular meetings foster deep connections and provide an opportunity for accountability and inspiration as we continue pursuing our faith together.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

This verse serves as a reminder of our duty as friends to uplift one another. We should strive to create environments where encouragement flourishes, reminding our friends of their worth and potential.

Colossians 3:16

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16

As we encourage each other, we can share the goodness of God in creative ways. This verse shows how using music can be an inspiring way to uplift our friends and spread joy in our relationships.

Philippians 1:3-5

“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

Expressing gratitude is a powerful form of encouragement. Paul’s words remind us of the joy friends bring into our lives and the importance of uplifting one another through prayer and support in our shared faith journey.

2 Corinthians 1:24

“Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.” – 2 Corinthians 1:24

This verse highlights the essence of collaboration in friendships. We work together, supporting one another not only to maintain joy but also to strengthen our faith as we walk hand in hand with Christ.

Friendship in Trials

Friendship truly shines during difficult times. God designed us to support each other in tough moments, displaying His love through our actions. When we face trials, we need friends who will stand beside us and help carry our burdens. These scriptures will remind us of the strength that arises from reliable friendships during life’s challenges.

Galatians 6:2

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2

This verse emphasizes our responsibility to support one another, especially during struggles. True friends help lighten the load, embodying Christ’s love and compassion, while fulfilling His command to love one another.

2 Timothy 1:16-17

“May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he searched hard for me until he found me.” – 2 Timothy 1:16-17

This passage illustrates the loyalty of a friend during Paul’s imprisonment. Onesiphorus exemplifies how friendship means being present and supportive even when times are tough, showcasing the depth of their bond.

James 1:12

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12

This verse reminds us that trials are a part of life, yet they also present opportunities for growth. Friends are essential during these times, as they help us remain steadfast and focused on God’s promises of hope.

Psalms 55:12-14

“If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were raising himself against me, I could hide from them. But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God, as we walked about among the worshipers.” – Psalms 55:12-14

This verse conveys the pain of betrayal from a close friend. It emphasizes how deeply friendships can affect us, showing the need for supportive relationships during hardships and reminding us to cherish our genuine friends.

John 15:13

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13

In this profound statement, Jesus defines the ultimate expression of love within friendship. This kind of enduring love means being willing to sacrifice for our friends, showing our commitment and loyalty during critical life moments.

Growing Together in Friendship

As friends, we have the unique opportunity to help each other grow spiritually. Friendships can encourage deeper relationships with Christ, inspiring us to become more Christ-like. The Bible encourages us to build each other up and to spur one another on in our faith walks. These verses will guide us in understanding how we can grow together in our friendships.

Proverbs 13:20

“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13:20

This verse teaches us about the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise friends who can uplift us in our spiritual journeys. Being mindful of who we walk alongside can lead us to growth or harm, influencing our relationship with God.

Matthew 18:20

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20

Jesus promises His presence when we gather in His name. As friends coming together for worship, prayer, or fellowship, we encourage each other and invite God into our midst, cultivating a deeper connection.

Ephesians 4:2-3

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:2-3

This passage encourages us to nurture our friendships through humility and patience. As we strive to keep peace and unity, we allow our friendships to flourish in love and create lasting bonds that honor God.

Romans 12:10

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10

This verse reminds us of the need for devotion and selflessness in friendships. We are encouraged to elevate our friends above ourselves, cultivating an atmosphere where love reigns through our attentiveness to one another’s needs.

Philippians 2:2

“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” – Philippians 2:2

Our friendships can be a source of joy when we align our hearts and minds in love. Striving for unity in purpose and spirit allows our friendships to thrive and brings us closer to God’s intentions for our lives.

The Power of Forgiveness in Friendship

Forgiveness is an essential ingredient in any lasting friendship. We will inevitably face misunderstandings or hurts, but how we respond defines the strength of our relationship. God’s Word teaches us how vital it is to forgive one another, fostering healing and growth. These verses remind us of the significance of embracing forgiveness in our friendships.

Colossians 3:13

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13

This verse highlights the importance of bearing with one another’s faults. We should strive to forgive friends in the same way God forgives us. This intentional act of grace allows our friendships to heal and flourish in love.

Ephesians 4:32

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32

Kindness and compassion create a safe environment for forgiveness. By modeling God’s forgiveness in our relationships, we exemplify grace, allowing our friendships to deepen and restorative healing to take place.

Matthew 6:14-15

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” – Matthew 6:14-15

This passage emphasizes the importance of forgiveness within our relationships. We must forgive others to receive God’s forgiveness, reminding us that our friendships require humility and grace to thrive.

Proverbs 19:11

“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” – Proverbs 19:11

In this verse, we learn that true wisdom lies in exercising patience and the ability to overlook offenses. Being able to forgive small grievances can pave the way for stronger friendships built on trust and rapport.

Luke 17:3-4

“So watch yourselves. If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” – Luke 17:3-4

Here, Jesus teaches us about the need for continual forgiveness. Friendships thrive on the willingness to forgive repeatedly, embodying God’s boundless grace and love in our lives and relationships.

Final Thoughts

Friendship is a precious gift from God, vital to our growth in faith and support in life. As we explored these Bible verses, we were reminded of the importance of loyalty, encouragement, forgiveness, and the joy of shared experiences in our friendships. By embracing the values illustrated in Scripture, we can cultivate deep bonds that reflect God’s love and grace. Each verse serves as a guiding light, reminding us of how to nurture and strengthen our friendships to align with God’s purpose in our lives.

Let us keep striving to be the kind of friends who uplift one another, emphasizing loyalty and offering forgiveness when needed. As we walk together in faith, we can create communities rooted in love and support. For more on this wonderful topic, I encourage you to explore these engaging Bible verses about friendship in the New Testament and dive deeper into what friendships can mean under God’s guidance.