5 Ways to be a Better Friend

by: Melanie Moore

 

Lucy and Ethel.

Wilma Flintstone and Betty Rubble.

Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia.

Laverne and Shirley.

Phoebe, Rachel, and Monica.

 

What thoughts come to mind when you read this list? Hopefully these names have reminded you of some of the iconic women's friendships on TV. We recently celebrated Valentine's Day, and all of the talk around "Gal-entine's Day" made me stop to think about the friends I am so fortunate to have in my life.

What makes someone a great friend? How can each of us be a better friend? 

Here are 5 ways that come to mind to me when thinking about all the ways my precious friends make life a little bit sweeter each day.

 
1. Encourage

I can't tell you how many times a day that started out crummy was transformed through a conversation with a friend. Their words of encouragement to my heart were like medicine! Sometimes, we just need to hear someone say they believe in us. My closest friends are those who I feel comfortable to share my heart, dreams, and fears. They encourage me to chase after my dreams and to choose faith over my fears.

 "Kind words are like honey— 
 sweet to the soul and healthy for the body."
Proverbs 16:24

2. Listen

We don’t always have to solve all of the problems we hear from our friends. Sometimes, they just need a listening ear. When a friend comes to you with a problem, ask if she would like help brainstorming a solution or whether she just needs to vent. Either way, she will know that as a great friend, you will be there to listen and support her in any way she needs.

"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this:

Everyone should be quick to listen,
slow to speak and slow to become angry." 

James 1:19

3. Pray

Life can be so tough! How could we ever survive without prayer? I encourage you to pray regularly for your friends. When a friend comes to you with a problem, I encourage you to pray for and with them – right then! I know it might feel strange at first, but please give it a try. This is a lesson I have learned from my friends praying with and for me! Praying for one another has been a transforming practice for me in my own friendships.

"Share each other’s burdens,
and in this way obey the law of Christ."
Galatians 6:2

 

4. Give

It truly is more blessed to give than to receive, and this goes for our friendships too. I encourage each of us to give freely to our friends. We can give our time, our full attention, a quick note, a cup of coffee, or even give them the benefit of the doubt! Always assume their good intentions and think about how you can be the hands and feet of Christ to bless your friends. You never know what effect it could have on their day.

"...remember the words of the Lord Jesus,
how he himself said, 
‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Acts 20:35

 

5. Laugh

Lastly, don’t forget to laugh together! Friendship is such a wonderful gift that God has given us! Make time to laugh together and enjoy one another’s company.

"A joyful heart is good medicine..."

Proverbs 17:22

I hope these ideas encourage you in your friendships. What other ideas would you add to the list? Please tag a friend in the comments who means the world to you -- I know it would brighten their day to know how much they mean to you!