7 Signs of True Friendship
Friendship is one of the greatest gifts in all of life. We all value friendship, but in our modern world, we've lost sight of what friendship really means. It's now tragically possible to have thousands of "friends" on social media, but not ONE true friend. So, how can we tell if someone is truly our friend? How can we know when we're truly being a friend to someone?, This simple list below isn't comprehensive, but after observing some of the strongest friendships on earth and researching timeless relationship principles in the Bible, I'm convinced that EVERY healthy friendship has these seven traits, 1. Friends can disagree without losing respect for each other. Especially in a political season, we see people taking sides and writing off anyone who doesn't share their opinions. True friendship is stronger than differences in perspective or opinion. Real friends can have meaningful discussion and even debate around important issues, but they don't forfeit their friendship over different opinions. They value each other's perspective because they value each other. "A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare." Proverbs 151, 2. Friends forgive quickly. Friends don't bring up old dirt and gossip about each other. They forgive and seek forgiveness with transparency and humility. There can be no grudges for a relationship to thrive. 4. Friends have your back. Loyalty is vital to friendship. There's no such thing as a "frenemy". Someone once said, "A friend will bail you out of jail, but a "real friend" would have been arrested with you!" A real friend will show up on their day off to help you move into your new place. They'll be there for you when you need them and you should do the same for them. 6. Friends make each other better. A true friend will sharpen you and make you a better person by their positive influence and encouragement in your life. They bring out the best in you. They don't try to hold you down to make themselves look better. They lift you up and speak positive words to you and about you in public and in private.