How Do I Make Friends?

Throughout His ministry, Jesus surrounded Himself with people who could encourage Him, pray for Him, and support Him. Yes, Jesus was their Savior, but He was also their friend.

Here’s how Jesus talked about His relationship with His followers: “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” (John 15:15 NIV).

If Jesus chose close relationships, it’s a good idea for us to find close relationships with other followers of Jesus, too.

Sometimes life can feel impossibly difficult, and in those moments, we need people we can lean on for prayer, guidance, and support. In times of joy, celebrating with friends can make those moments even more meaningful, and hard times can be more easily endured with strength from friends (Ecclesiastes 4:12 NIV).

These things are true about relationships because God made us to be like Him. You see, Christians believe in the Trinity. The Trinity is God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit all living in a life-giving relationship with each other. Like the Trinity lives in relationship with each other, God desires a relationship with us.

That’s why surrounding yourself with people who follow Jesus is an essential spiritual practice, and when you do, you’re following God’s example. So much of our culture today is trying to fit in with people and ideas that are contrary to God’s will for our lives and we need to remember, "Don't be fooled by those who say such things, for 'bad company corrupts good character'" (1 Corinthians 15:33 NLT).

Do you have the close relationships you need in life? Are those with people who encourage you in your relationship with Jesus and support you through life’s highs and lows? If not, think about how you can invest in the relationships you already have or find the friendships you need.

If you don’t currently have Jesus-following friends, finding a small group of fellow Jesus-followers is a great place to start. Finding and making friends can feel awkward or intimidating, but finding your people is worth the initial discomfort. It’s life-giving to have friends who celebrate you, support you, and encourage you to keep getting to know Jesus every day.

For help finding such a group of people, check out the tool we offer you at the end of tomorrow's reading!