Proverbs (17:17, Bible in Basic English) says, “A friend is loving at all times, and becomes a brother in times of trouble.” This means that a true friend has love and concern for us in all aspects of our life, but especially when we are in trouble, just like a loving brother would.
Friendly people don’t exclude one group or another. Jesus is our best example of this, because he loved everyone and spent time with all different kinds of people: rich and poor, healthy and sick, those with lots of friends, but also those who had no one. So if you see someone sitting alone, introduce yourself with a smile, and let your light shine!
True friends look out for each other. If we see a friend doing something that might be hurting themselves or others, we should kindly speak up because we care. If WE are the one being corrected, we should have an open heart and a listening ear, knowing that when someone cares about us, they want what is best for us. When King David was corrected by God through the prophet Nathan, he listened, realized his mistake, asked God for forgiveness, and then tried to do better.
Friends are not judgmental. We should avoid putting others down or harshly criticizing if they make mistakes. Matthew (7:1,2 NIV) says, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Of course, if you or someone you know is being bullied or mistreated, it’s good to ask a parent, family members or teachers for help. We should never try to get back at the person hurting us.
True friends can depend on each other because they keep their promises. If we say we’re going to do something, we should do it to the best of our ability. God always keeps His promises, so we know it pleases Him when we keep ours!
Lastly, true friends don’t “evil speak,” or gossip about each other behind their backs. Titus (3:2, ESV) advises us “To speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” Proverbs (21:23, God’s Word Translation) says, “Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.”
Remember 1 Thessalonians: (5:11, NLT) “So encourage each other and build each other up,…”
So, what makes a true friend? Someone who lets their light shine with everyone (regardless of their social status), looks out for others, has a heart that is open to constructive criticism, keeps their promises, and avoids gossip and evil speaking.