What Is a Godly Friendship?

 

What Is a Godly Friendship? By Michael Youssef, Ph.D. " Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. (Romans 12:15)       A godly friendship never pivots on equal return of service or return of affection. Godly friendships move away from self and toward loved ones. Godly friends desire their friends' welfare. They find joy in the prosperity of their friends, and their sorrow is in their misfortune and grief. They enjoy doing and enduring for each other. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13).       Godly friendships are self-sacrificing and life-transforming. The intimacy we long for is found in Christ and expressed through godly friendships. Jesus said to his disciples, "I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you" (John 15:15). A godly friend is given information that no one else has, building precious intimacy.       Godly friendships are fruit-bearing. No one in the universe wants you to reach your potential more than God—and He knows your greatest potential will be expressed in your love for others. Jesus loves you unconditionally, and it is from a place of unconditional love that godly friendships are formed. The Lord Jesus Christ gave His life for us. As we grow in the qualities of a godly friend, we must keep our eyes fixed on Christ because He is the perfect model of a true friend.       Just as God took the initiative in choosing us as His friends (see John 15:16) and in providing a way for our friendship with Him through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ, godly friends take the initiative. They do not wait for the other person to need, to trust, or to love them. They step out, by faith, in love and service.       Prayer: God, give me the courage to step out in faith, taking the initiative to build godly friendships. Help me to be a godly friend to those You put in my life. Amen.