Proverbs 20:6 (NLT): Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable?
John 15:13 (KJV): Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friend
James 2:23 (NIV): And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend.
8. Develop Healthy Relationships.
A basic need we all have as human beings is to have someone who loves and cares for us. In so doing we must choose our friends very carefully. If your friends are treating you badly, have a bad influence on you or just constantly stress you out, then you may need to reassess these relationships and pray for and work towards finding friends that will have a good influence on you and also truly care about you. In the same way you need to make sure you are being a good friend as well. Sometimes we need to look elsewhere and go out of your comfort zone to meet new people. A great way to meet people is by getting involved in activities that reflect who you are and what you enjoy doing; church and church activities are always helpful in finding new friends. Take your time to ensure any relationship you are involved in – family, romantic or otherwise, are a healthy one.
9. Stay In Touch With Family and Friends- Have The Right Priorities.
God should be our number one friend. We need to keep in regular contact with him just like we would an earthly friend. The more we grow in our relationship with God, the more we will discover He is an awesome friend.
Our spouse should be our best friend (after God). If your spouse is not your best friend, take the time to pray and work on making this a real possibility.
We also need to surround ourselves with people who are positive, beneficial, encouraging, inspiring, motivating and helpful in our spiritual growth. Our friends however should not just make us feel good – We also need friends that will lovingly tell us the truth to help us become better people (even when it hurts), not friends that will instead criticize us behind our back.
We need to maintain our relationships by keeping in touch, making an effort and regularly spending and enjoying time with our loved ones. We need to rejoice and celebrate with each other; support each other through tough times as well as the good. It is important to keep in touch with our family and friends and not forget to show them just how special they are to us. Above all we need to be ever thankful for the friendship, companionship and love we share with others.
Here is a pdf I found that is helpful on Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships.
Here is a great site with wonderful helps regarding Healthy Relationships. It is the Center For Relationship Enrichment.
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