Choosing Friends

Proverbs 18:24

A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Hey! Hi & Hello

All month long I will be talking about the topic of self-love through the lens of the community we surround ourselves with. Loving yourself in word, but not in deed doesn't fully equate to self-love. Self- love in word shows up as a mere thought which lives in your head. When it comes to putting self-love into deed, you have to get those thoughts out of your head and on display in its full regalia which brings a different aspect to this popular movement. Friends, how many of us have them.

Friendships are hard to come by. In general, people are more selfish and most definitely self- centered in today’s modern society. Everything revolves around them and what they need or want which leaves little to no room for anyone else. Perhaps you are guilty of it too. The bible says that in the last days men will become lovers of themselves. No wonder why so many people find themselves in a lowly and lonely state of mind.

Choosing friends as a Christian is serious business. It calls for wisdom, discernment, and patience. In order to choose carefully, you will need to bend your ear towards the voice of God by way of reading His word to learn more about the character of a friend. This is so you know how to be a friend, and so you know how to choose a friend. We can see from the text that we are to show ourselves friendly. This proves that being a friend involves action on our part. Be careful not to consider people who can only serve you and your needs at the time, but rather choose people who you too can serve. Friendship is about servanthood.

Let's look at three characteristics we should look for in a friend. First, off the top is that they too are Christian, because how can the two walk together unless they agree. Yes, it is fine to show yourself friendly, but one serving Buddha and you serving God just doesn't work when it's time to pray, put angels to flight, or move the mountains in our lives. Second would be that they are peacemakers. Who wants a quarrelsome friend? Majoring in the minors is what quarrelsome people do. They have nothing better to do than to argue points that do nothing to enhance our lives. Which by the way leads us to prosper year to year and decade to decade. Third, a godly friend will edify and lift you up in the things of God. You should be able to discuss the word of God with your trusted friend because you both immerse yourselves in the word of God. The word will draw you closer to one another in the healthiest way possible. Closer than that of a brother. Or in this case, sister.

Listen, all the other stuff like holding your secrets and laughing uncontrollably like I do with my best friend will come once the relationship is established. Don't rush it and don't label it too soon. Wait for God's direction and stamp of approval. He knows what's best for you and for her. Just be better today than you were yesterday and love yourself through the community you choose carefully.

Yes, I believe that one of the best ways to love yourself is to choose friends carefully.

P.R.E.T.T.Y women have P.R.E.T.T.Y friends.