wise

3 Traits of a Godly Friend

Godly friends bring blessings into our lives. I don’t mean someone on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, unless they are a close friend. I’m referring to a person who speaks life into our heart and soul. Someone who’s there for us no matter what.

Friends Give Wise Counsel
A friend listens, empathizes, and supports. They won’t lead us astray. They seek God on our behalf and offer godly advice because they want what’s best for us.

The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.
(Proverbs 27:9, NLT)

The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray.
(Proverbs 12:26, NLT)

Friends Help Us Succeed
Friends share in our struggles, walk alongside for support, lend a helping hand, and pray for us. They enjoy spending time with us to encourage and share God’s Word. They make us accountable and invest their time and talents to help make our relationship with the Lord stronger.

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.
If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.
But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.
(Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, NLT)

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
(Proverbs 27:17, NLT)

Friends Always Love
Godly friends love us with Christ’s love. They show mercy, kindness, and grace. We may hurt or upset them, but they are quick to forgive us.

A friend loves at all times.
(Proverbs 17:17a, NIV)

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility,
gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults,
and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord
forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves
with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.

(Colossians 3:12-14, NLT)

And let’s not forget, we are God’s friends. He gives wise counsel through His Word, helps in time of need, and always loves us.

So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God
because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.
(Romans 5:11, NLT)

Take time to thank God for the godly friends in your life and the blessings they’ve brought you. 

What traits do you look for in a godly friend? Please leave your comments below.


Photo by Krista Mangulsone - Unsplash