Throughout my life, I have been very fortunate to meet many people and make numerous acquaintances, but I can honestly say that I can count my true friends on one hand. That’s because I am very selective about who I allow into my life. If there is one area of my life where I am extremely discerning, it is in choosing my friends. I have always valued the quality of friendships over the quantity, and as a result, I have been blessed with godly friends who enrich my life. As Proverbs reminds us, “Ointment and perfume delight the heart, and the sweetness of a man’s friend gives delight by hearty counsel.” (Proverbs 27:9, NKJV) True friends bring joy, wisdom, and encouragement into our lives.
My godly friends are always just a text or phone call away. I can reach out to them when I need prayer, knowing they will pray with me and for me. They are believers in Christ who encourage me when my faith is weak. They are true companions who celebrate with me in times of joy and stand beside me in moments of sorrow. They encourage me to keep going and are never afraid to lovingly hold me accountable to God’s Word. Scripture tells us, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” (Proverbs 13:20, NKJV). My friends help ensure that I continue my Christian walk, no matter what challenges I face.
We all need and want friends in our lives, but the type of friends we keep profoundly affects our spiritual well-being. Who you allow into your life is not something to take lightly. I urge you to be very selective. If you have friends who consciously or unconsciously encourage you to disregard God and His commandments, and who do not support your spiritual growth, it is time to let them go. The Bible warns us, “Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits.” (1 Corinthians 15:33, NKJV). Toxic friendships are dangerous to your soul, and distancing yourself from them is not only wise—it is essential. As Proverbs also teaches, “Make no friendship with an angry man, and with a furious man do not go, lest you learn his ways and set a snare for your soul.” (Proverbs 22:24-25, NKJV)
My beautiful sister, fill your life with godly friends—friends who will draw you closer to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, encourage you to grow in godly character, and provide honest, Scripture-based guidance. Scripture reminds us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9, NKJV) Having godly friends is essential, not optional. This is your life and your faith we are talking about, cherish and guard both carefully.
Selam Seyoum