Despite the myriad of opportunities to connect with old friendships and acquaintances on social media, the number of close friendships that people have has decreased significantly over the past couple of decades. In our increasingly digital and individualistic society, genuine friendships are becoming rarer. As Christians, we must recognize the profound significance of friendship, not just as a social construct, but as a reflection of God’s good design for human relationships.
First, friendship is God’s idea. God made Adam perfect and sinless, yet he declared, “It is not good for man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). He provided Adam with Eve, who would be his companion and helper and have a lasting, close relationship with him . We are created in the image of a triune God who exists in perfect fellowship within Himself. As image-bearers, we are also designed for fellowship, first with God, and then with the people he has made. This truth extends beyond marriage to the broader realm of human relationships.
Healthy, flourishing friendships are also a natural outworking of God’s command that we should love one another (1 John 4:7-21). We have received grace and been invited into fellowship with God, and out of the grace and mercy that we have received, we extend the same grace and mercy to other believers.
Even the secular world recognizes that friendship is extremely beneficial to our health and wellbeing. Mayo Clinic highlights that friendship helps people feel a sense of meaning and purpose in life, increases their overall happiness, and helps them avoid unhealthy habits.
While friendship can certainly provide believers with a sense of happiness and purpose, Christian friendship goes even deeper. Proverbs 27:17 tells us, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” In a world that celebrates individualism, good friends will hold us accountable to live lives that are pleasing to God. Often, one of the tools that God uses to point us towards himself and to shape us to be more like Christ are Godly friends.
Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). Often, the world doesn’t have an explanation for the love and care we pour into others, or the forgiveness and grace we show people who have wronged us. Our friendships, especially within the body of Christ, serve as a powerful testimony to the world of God’s transforming love.
Ideas for Cultivating Friendships
In light of these truths, we must intentionally pursue and nurture friendships. This may mean:
- Prioritizing interaction with people in person, via zoom, or via phone calls over superficial interactions on social media
- Being on the lookout for opportunities to make friends, and being open to making friends with people who are different from you (especially people who may be older or younger than you!)
- Being vulnerable and authentic with trusted friends
- Finding ways to serve others, and allowing others to serve you
- Committing to regular fellowship with other believers by going to church and participating in fellowship events
As the world grows more isolated, let us champion the value of deep, meaningful friendships. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also reflect the character of our relational God to a watching world.
Chew On This:
What is one way you can go deeper with a trusted friend this week?
