Why christian friendships are important
The bible has a lot to say about godly friendships and why we should pursue them. "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil" (Ecclesiastes 4:9). God's word strongly emphasises His desire for us to form christian relationships. However, this isn’t to say you cannot have non-christian friendships. But it’s wise to understand why christian friendships are important.
God's desire for christian friendships
"And the LORD God said, it is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him" (Genesis 2:8)
This bible verse is commonly recited when people are talking about romantic relationships. However, I have seen this verse not in a romantic sense but as a way of showing us common fellowship between humanity. God's desire was not for us to be alone, but that we would be blessed with companionship.
There are many verses which speak on why christian friendships are important, and how humanity is defined as working together to achieve a common goal.
"Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another"(Proverbs 27:17).
God gives us the gift of friendship not only because it brings us joy, but because it edifies us, builds us up and it helps us to grow spiritually.
Staying close to God is important
At times, we may feel far away from God and our faith may be dwindling due to troublesome situations. I'm sure we can all agree that COVID is one that we can all currently relate to.
In these times we need to seek godly counsel from friends who help us to see God's goodness in all that we're facing. Christian friendships are important, they help us to navigate through life in a God-honouring way. They impact knowledge, wisdom, understanding, revelation and truth into our lives. They intercede on our behalf, christian friends help us to get closer to God and to grow in our faith.
We have all been given a portion of faith, but I believe as we commune with fellow Christians our faith will grow. The more we see our faith within ourselves and in others, the more our faith will grow collectively and ignite faith in non-believers too. Christian friendships are important to living as God intended.
How has having christian friends helped your relationship with God?
Susan
I enjoy helping people grow and sharing the truth found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I believe we’re here to help one another and nurture each other as we grow!