Friendships are essential to human beings. They provide support, encouragement, and an outlet for fun and relaxation. However, not all friendships are created equal. Some can be toxic, while others can be uplifting and beneficial to our well-being. As Christians, it is important that we choose to live by Godly principles in our friendships. In this article, we will explore the meaning of Godly principles and how they can be applied to our friendships.
Understanding Godly Principles
Godly principles are the teachings and values of God. As Christians, we believe that the Bible is the ultimate authority and the source of Godly principles. The Bible teaches us how to live a Godly life, and it provides us with guidance on how to form healthy relationships. When we choose to live by Godly principles, we are choosing to live in a way that is pleasing to God.
Some of the Godly principles that we can apply to our friendships include honesty, forgiveness, humility, kindness, and love. These principles form the foundation of healthy and meaningful relationships.
Honesty in Friendship
Honesty is essential in any relationship, and it is especially important in friendships. Proverbs 24:26 states, “An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.” When we are honest with our friends, we are showing them that we value them and that we are committed to our relationship. Honesty builds trust, and trust is the foundation of any healthy friendship.
In addition to being honest with our friends, we should also expect honesty from them. Proverbs 27:6 says, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” A true friend will speak the truth, even when it is difficult to hear.
Forgiveness in Friendship
Forgiveness is another Godly principle that is essential in our friendships. In Matthew 6:14–15, Jesus says, “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.” When we forgive our friends, we are following the example of Jesus and showing them the love and mercy that God has shown us.
Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is necessary for healthy relationships. When we hold onto grudges and refuse to forgive, we are creating a barrier between ourselves and our friends. We must learn to let go of our anger and resentment and choose to forgive, just as God has forgiven us.
Humility in Friendship
Humility is another Godly principle that is essential in our friendships. Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” When we are humble, we are putting the needs and interests of our friends before our own.
Humility allows us to build deep and meaningful relationships with our friends. When we are willing to listen and learn from our friends, we are showing them that we value and respect them. Humility also allows us to apologize when we are wrong and to seek forgiveness when we have hurt our friends.
Kindness in Friendship
Kindness is another Godly principle that is essential in our friendships. Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” When we are kind to our friends, we are showing them the love and compassion that God has shown us.
Kindness can take many forms. We can show kindness by listening to our friends when they need someone to talk to, by offering a helping hand when they are in need, or by simply being present and supportive. When we choose to be kind to our friends, we are building a strong foundation for a lasting and meaningful friendship.
Love in Friendship
Love is the most important Godly principle that we can apply to our friendships. In John 15:12, Jesus says, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” When we love our friends, we are showing them the unconditional love that God has for us.
Love is more than just a feeling; it is a choice that we make every day. When we choose to love our friends, we are choosing to put their needs and interests above our own. We are choosing to be patient and kind, to not envy or boast, to not be proud or rude, to not be self-seeking or easily angered, and to keep no record of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). When we choose to love our friends in this way, we are building a friendship that is rooted in Godly principles and that will last a lifetime.
Applying Godly Principles to Our Friendships
Living by Godly principles in our friendships requires intentionality and effort. We must be willing to put in the time and energy to build healthy and meaningful relationships. This means choosing our friends wisely, being honest and vulnerable with them, forgiving them when they make mistakes, being humble and putting their needs first, showing kindness and compassion, and choosing to love them unconditionally.
In addition to applying Godly principles to our friendships, we should also pray for our friends and ask God to bless and guide our relationships. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” When we have Godly friendships, we have a support system that will be with us through the good times and the bad.
In Summary
Living by Godly principles in our friendships is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. As Christians, we are called to love one another and to build relationships that honor God. When we choose to live by Godly principles in our friendships, we are choosing to build relationships that are rooted in trust, forgiveness, humility, kindness, and love. Let us strive to live by these principles and cultivate friendships that honor God.
FAQs
- How can I tell if a friendship is toxic?
- A toxic friendship is characterized by negativity, manipulation, and a lack of trust. If you find yourself feeling drained or anxious after spending time with a friend, it may be a sign that the friendship is toxic.
- What should I do if I have a friend who is not living by Godly principles?
- It is important to pray for your friend and to gently encourage them to live by Godly principles. However, ultimately it is up to them to make the choice to change their behavior.
- How can I build deeper friendships?
- Building deeper friendships requires vulnerability and intentional effort. Be willing to share your thoughts and feelings with your friends, and make time to spend quality time together.
- Is it possible to have a friendship without Godly principles?
- Yes, it is possible to have a friendship without Godly principles. However, these friendships may not be as fulfilling or meaningful as friendships that are rooted in Godly principles.
- How can I incorporate Bible verses into my friendships?
- Share Bible verses that are meaningful to you with your friends, and encourage them to do the same. Pray together and ask God to guide your friendships.
