Day 19 Friday January 24 “Wise Goals for my Friendships” Angi and Javy

Proverbs 27:9 "Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and a friend's sweetness comes from his sincere advice."

The life of the Lone Ranger is meant for the movies. From the beginning (Genesis 2:18), God created us to live in community, to share our lives with others. Therefore, He graciously provides us with a wealth of wisdom about friendship in His Word.

The book of Proverbs teaches us how to relate to others. Indeed, it offers abundant advice on the subject of relationships and has much to say about how to behave with neighbors, how to raise children in the fear of the Lord, and how to be good friends.

1. Be the Kind of Friend You Would Like to Have
"A man who has friends must show himself friendly" (Proverbs 18:24, NKJV).

This wise advice invites us to be the kind of friend we would like to have. Often, we place expectations on our friends that we are not even willing to meet ourselves. This aligns with Jesus' message: "Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets" (Matthew 7:12). As believers, part of our calling is to be good friends.

2. Do Not Participate in Gossip
"A gossip separates the best of friends" (Proverbs 16:28).

When trust is betrayed, friendships can suffer irreparable damage. Therefore, when you have issues with a friend, refrain from telling others. If you are tempted to "air" your grievances with someone else, remember that gossip will not help resolve the discord. Conversely, to maintain our friendships, we should not listen to gossip about our friends, as it can also destroy relationships.

We are called to extend the same grace we have received in Christ, which we continue to receive every day. In the face of conflict, let us follow the Biblical model for resolution. Start by praying and asking the Lord for wisdom to address the issue. Next, talk to your friend (cf. Matthew 18:15), expressing in love what you believe is happening. Sincerity helps preserve relationships.

3. Show Grace
"When a fault is forgiven, love flourishes, but keeping it in mind separates close friends" (Proverbs 17:9, NLT).

At any moment, someone may say something inappropriate because sin persists in our hearts. Additionally, we are limited, and our memories often struggle to manage everything. When a friend fails you—such as forgetting an important date like your birthday—show grace.

We are encouraged to extend the same grace we have received in Christ and that we continue to receive daily. Remember, we, too, will require grace at some point.

Ways to Dedicate Time to Your Friends

  • Give them a call or send a text.

  • Spend quality time with them.

  • Be willing to help them in times of need.

  • Keep them in your prayers.

  • Always thank the Lord for them and their families.

John 15:12-17: "This is my commandment: that you love one another as I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends, and you are my friends if you keep what I command you."

Angie and Javi