We all make various acquaintances throughout our lives—people who come into our circle for a season and then move on. With some, we’re content to let them go. But with others, we’re not. Once an acquaintance turns into true friendship, we hold on more tightly to that friend. A friend is a favoured companion for whom we feel affection or esteem. Why is a friend favoured? Most likely, it has much to do with how we feel when we’re with him or her. A friend accepts us as we are and is patient with our faults. A friend points out our strengths and rejoices at our successes. A friend’s presence and listening ear fill a void in us and give our lives a sense of validation and greater depth.
Do you have such a friend? Do you know how to be that friend? These resources can help you recognize the need for friendship and develop the attributes that will make you a treasured friend to others.
A friend is always loyal,
and a brother is born to help in time of need.
(Proverbs 17:17 NLT)
We live in a society of isolation and indifference. But the truth is, we need each other. When you’re separate, you’re weak. And if you think you can make it through life on your own, you’re headed for a fall.
Sometimes we’re tempted to drop anchor and live a safe life in a secure harbour. But the Christian life isn’t about being safe or secure—it’s abut being salt and light in a dark world.
We all need love and friendship, especially when times are tough. Friends take the sting and loneliness out of life.
Sharing life is better than going it alone. Life is hard. Having a friend by your side can help you survive even the most troubling challenges.
A positive attitude is based on a choice, not on feelings. Too often we make our attitude the victim of our feelings and think we can have a positive attitude only when we feel positive.
In Greek the word is “koinonia,” and means a deep level of sharing life in harmony and unity. Fellowship is fulfilling and satisfying.
There are four types of friends: acquaintances, casual friends, close friends, and intimate friends. While we may only have one or two intimate friends, they’re the people who help to make the journey a little easier.
Even though relationships aren’t easy, life would be pretty dull and lonely without them. In spite of our high-tech world, people remain an essential ingredient in life.
You don’t have to look very far to find someone who needs your encouragement and your friendship. Whatever time you invest in others is time well spent.
Think for a moment about the people you’ve known that have made a positive difference in your life. Leaving a legacy of helping others and making a difference is something we can all do.
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Insight for Living is committed to excellence in communicating the truths of Scripture and the Person of Jesus Christ in an accurate, clear, and practical manner so that people will come to an understanding of God’s plan for their lives, as well as their significant role as authentic Christians in a needy, hostile, and desperate world.
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