Friends are our, “Amigos, buddies, pals, bros, comrades, and your posse.” God has wired us for friendship. We crave it and hunger for acceptance. Many times we make dumb mistakes just to be accepted and feel like we belong in a group. Friendship is a powerful aspect of life. How do we build true friends? What does a godly friendship look like? Are they just a person we have “fun” with?
“He who walks with the wise grows wise; but a companion of fools suffers harm (Proverbs 13:20 NIV).
"Companion of fools." Your greatest regrets revolve around being with friends.
"Suffers Harm." It is much more about who you are with, than what you are doing.
What does it mean to be a “friend?” A trustworthy person you mutually choose to love and to encourage in order to bring God glory.
- A friend admits when they are wrong and repents. A friend pushes you towards God instead of away.
- A friend is under authority. Humility defines their heart.
- A friend will encourage you even when you fail
- A friend will encourage you to live for Jesus.
- A friend knows you deeply and loves you unconditionally
What is influence? The action or process of producing effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of another or others. The people closest to you have access to your heart and mind. Who you surround yourself with has powerful influence over your decisions and future.
If your friends are not very concerned about their lives, they are not going to be concerned about yours. A true friend cares for your soul.
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
Friends influence us and have the opportunity to make an impact on our lives. Your friends are like the bottoms on an elevator. They will either take you up or take you down.
