The Type of friends we need

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV) Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

1. They make me better

1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV) Do not be [deceived]: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

2. They lift you higher

3. They stir you spiritually

Hebrews 10:23-24 (NIV) Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds…

4. They fight with you

Proverbs 17:17 (NIV) A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.  

Proverbs 18:24 (NKJV) A man who has friends must himself be friendly…

5. How to be a good friend?

6. Add value to their life

Romans 14:19 (NIV) Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. 

Proverbs 11:25 (NIV) A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

7. Keep your word

 Proverbs 25:19 (NLT) Putting confidence in an unreliable person in times of trouble is like chewing with a broken tooth or walking on a lame foot.

8. Don’t gossip

Proverbs 16:28 (ESV) A dishonest [person] spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.

James 1:26 (NIV) Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.

9. Be there in difficult times

2 Samuel 15:21 (NIV) But Ittai replied to the king, “As surely as the Lord lives, and as my lord the king lives, wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there will your servant be.”

10. What about difficult people?

Luke 17:1-4 (NKJV) “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea…If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. 4 And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.” 

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