Friendship is a cherished gift that brings joy and support to our lives. The Bible recognizes the importance of friendship and offers guidance on what makes a good friend. Join us as we explore verses that celebrate the beauty of companionship and the qualities of true, godly friendships.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Intercession
Bible Verses About Friendship
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. A true friend is someone who loves unconditionally and is there for you in both good times and bad times. They are like a brother or sister, ready to offer support and encouragement during times of difficulty.
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 dangers of having unreliable friends. If we surround ourselves with people who are not trustworthy or dependable, it can lead to our downfall. However, there is a friend who is even closer than a family member, a friend who is faithful, reliable, and always there for us.
Proverbs 27:9
“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”
Having a true friend is like a refreshing fragrance that brings joy to our hearts. A true friend not only offers kind words but also provides wise counsel and guidance. Their words are sincere and come from a place of genuine care and concern.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
In a true friendship, both individuals continually challenge and encourage each other to grow and mature. Just as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen one another’s character, skills, and faith through their interactions and mutual support.
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 verse highlights the synergy and strength that comes from having a companion in life. Two people working together can accomplish more and support each other in times of need. It emphasizes the importance of having someone by our side, both in times of success and failure.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse warns us about the destructive potential of gossip and slander. It reminds us that speaking ill of others can cause division and damage close friendships. To maintain healthy and strong friendships, we must be mindful of our words and strive to build up, not tear down.
John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
This verse demonstrates the epitome of love and friendship. Jesus Himself laid down His life for His friends, showing the highest form of selflessness and sacrifice. We should strive to love others in the same way, willing to give up our lives, time, and resources for the sake of our friends.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
True friends are not afraid to speak the truth, even if it may hurt. Their words are meant to help and correct, not to harm. In contrast, flattery from an enemy may seem sweet but is ultimately deceitful and harmful. This verse encourages us to value and trust the honesty of our true friends.
Ecclesiastes 4:12
“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
Having a strong support system is crucial in life. When we face challenges or enemies, having a friend by our side can provide protection and strength. Moreover, when God is the third strand in our friendship, the bond becomes even stronger and more resilient, capable of withstanding any adversity.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
The people we surround ourselves with greatly influence our character and choices. By choosing friends who are wise and godly, we can learn from their wisdom and grow spiritually. On the other hand, befriending foolish and unwise individuals can lead us down a destructive path. Therefore, it is essential to carefully choose our companions.
Psalm 133:1
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
Unity among brothers and sisters in Christ is a beautiful and desirable sight. When we live in harmony and love one another, it brings joy and blessings. This verse reminds us of the importance of fostering unity within the body of Christ, promoting peace and cooperation among believers.
James 4:4
“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”
This verse warns against forming close friendships with the world and its values. When we prioritize worldly desires and conform to its ways, we become enemies of God. Instead, our friendship should be with God and His Word, seeking His will and following His commandments.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
This verse reminds us to be cautious about the company we keep. Being around people who engage in sinful behavior or have corrupt values can gradually influence our character and lead us astray. It is important to surround ourselves with people who will uplift and encourage us in our Christian walk.
Proverbs 27:5
“Better is open rebuke than hidden love.”
True friends will not shy away from speaking the truth, even when it is difficult. It is better to receive open rebuke from a friend who loves us than to be deceived by hidden love. Open and honest communication is essential for the growth and preservation of genuine friendships.
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
This verse, often referred to as the “Golden Rule,” encourages us to treat others with kindness, respect, and love. In the context of friendship, it reminds us to be a good friend by treating others the way we would like to be treated. It encapsulates the essence of God’s commandments and teachings.
Proverbs 27:19
“As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.”
This verse reminds us that our actions and attitudes, including how we treat our friends, are a reflection of our true character and what is in our hearts. If we have a heart filled with love, compassion, and integrity, it will be evident in our friendships and the way we interact with others.
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
As followers of Christ, we are called to love and serve one another in humility. This verse reminds us to prioritize the needs of others, showing honor and respect. In the context of friendship, it encourages us to celebrate and support our friends, putting their interests before our own.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Encouragement is a vital aspect of any friendship. This verse encourages us to uplift and inspire one another, spurring each other on in our faith and personal growth. By providing support and guidance, we can help our friends become the best versions of themselves.
Proverbs 27:17
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
This verse highlights the importance of accountability in friendship. Just as iron blades become sharper when they rub against each other, friends can sharpen each other’s character, wisdom, and discernment through their interactions. It emphasizes the mutual benefit that comes from having like-minded friends.
Romans 12:15
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
True friends are there for each other in both joyous and difficult times. This verse calls us to celebrate and share in the joy of our friends when they experience success or blessings. Likewise, we are to offer comfort, empathy, and support during times of sadness or loss.
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
In friendship, our words have the power to bring healing, encouragement, and warmth to our friends’ souls. Just as honey is sweet and nourishing to the body, gracious words can uplift and strengthen our friends’ spirits. Let us choose our words wisely and use them to build others up.
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
Love is the foundation of any healthy and lasting friendship. When we love one another deeply, we are willing to forgive and overlook each other’s faults. Love enables us to extend grace, mercy, and understanding, fostering unity and harmony in our friendships.
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.”
Choosing friends wisely is crucial in order to avoid negative influences. This verse warns against befriending individuals who have a quick temper and easily lose their temper. Their anger can be contagious and can lead us astray from the path of righteousness.
Colossians 3:12-14
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
These verses provide a blueprint for cultivating deep and meaningful friendships rooted in God’s love. It underscores the importance of virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Additionally, it highlights the significance of forgiveness and emphasizes that love is the bond that holds all these virtues together.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
Our choice of friends has a significant impact on our lives and character. This verse urges us to be selective and intentional in choosing friends who are righteous and aligned with God’s ways. The company we keep can either lead us closer to God or lead us astray from His truth and righteousness.
Proverbs 27:17
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
This verse reminds us of the mutual benefit and growth that can come from healthy friendships. Just as iron blades become sharper when they interact, friends can sharpen each other’s character, wisdom, and faith. True friends provide constructive feedback, challenge us to grow, and inspire us to become better versions of ourselves.
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 highlights the importance of reliable and trustworthy friends. Having friends who are faithful, dependable, and supportive brings stability and strength to our lives. However, there is one friend who surpasses all others – Jesus Christ. He is the friend who never fails, always sticks closer than a brother, and offers unconditional love and eternal companionship.
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.”
In this verse, Jesus declares that His followers are not merely servants but friends. He shares with them the knowledge and teachings He received from the Father. As friends of Jesus, we have the privilege of knowing and understanding His plans and purposes. It is an incredible honor to be in a personal relationship with the Son of God.
Proverbs 27:9
“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”
Friends can offer invaluable advice and guidance that brings joy and comfort to our hearts. This verse compares their wise counsel to the pleasant aroma of perfume and incense. Friends who speak from the heart, with sincerity and love, can provide insight and wisdom that has the power to positively impact our lives.
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 verse highlights the importance of having a companion or friend to share life’s journey. Together, we can accomplish more and enjoy the fruits of our labor. Furthermore, friends provide a source of support and encouragement. They are there to pick us up when we fall, to lend a helping hand, and to provide comfort during challenging times.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
The people we choose to surround ourselves with greatly impact our lives. This verse urges us to choose wise and godly friends who can help us grow in wisdom and discernment. On the contrary, associating with foolish individuals can lead to negative consequences and harm our spiritual well-being.
What does the Bible say About Friendship?
In the Bible, we find several verses and passages that provide guidance on the topic of friendship. These teachings can help us understand the importance of friendships and how to cultivate healthy and meaningful relationships with others.
One of the key principles emphasized in the Bible regarding friendship is the idea of choosing our friends wisely. Proverbs 13:20 (NIV) states, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” This verse encourages us to associate with people who are wise and virtuous, as they can positively influence our lives.
Additionally, the Bible teaches us about the qualities of a good friend. Proverbs 17:17 (NIV) says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” This verse reminds us that true friends are loyal and supportive, especially during challenging times.
Another aspect of biblical friendship is the idea of mutual encouragement and accountability. Proverbs 27:17 (NIV) states, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” This verse illustrates the concept that our friends can help us grow spiritually and morally by providing guidance and correction when needed.
Furthermore, the Bible encourages us to practice love, compassion, and forgiveness in our friendships. In John 15:12 (NIV), Jesus says, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” This command applies to our friendships as well, reminding us to love our friends unconditionally.
Finally, the Bible warns against negative influences in our friendships. 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV) advises, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'” This verse serves as a cautionary reminder that our choice of friends can impact our own character and behavior.
In summary, the Bible provides valuable guidance on friendship, emphasizing the importance of choosing friends wisely, being a good friend, seeking mutual growth and accountability, practicing love and forgiveness, and avoiding negative influences. By following these principles, we can cultivate strong, meaningful, and God-honoring friendships in our lives.