Biblical Perspective on Friendship

Friends shape our lives: Other than our family members, the friends we choose play a significant role in our lives. In fact, the friends we choose can profoundly impact who we become, sometimes even determining the course of our lives. However, not every person we encounter will share our beliefs. The paralysed man: In the Bible, there is a story of a man who had been paralysed his entire life. However, it was when his friends broke down the roof of a house so that he could meet Jesus, that his life changed. The entire trajectory of this man's life changed because his friends were willing to do whatever it took to see their friend well. The healing he experienced was a direct result of their unwavering commitment to his well-being. It is safe to assume that his life would have turned out a lot differently if it had not been for his friends. Value of true friendship: The Bible is filled with verses that emphasise the value of true friendship. We see many verses speaking of laying one’s life down for his friend, a friend being close as a brother, and how two are better than one. They highlight the impact that friends can have on our lives, both spiritually and emotionally. Friends with different beliefs: Just as friends can do us much good, they can also do us much harm if given the chance. The friends we choose determine which of the two will happen. It’s well known that bad company can corrupt good morals. Even if our values are strong, the people around us can sway us in less desirable directions. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose friends who support our beliefs and help us grow. Now, what does that mean? Can we not make friends with those who do not share our beliefs? Of course not. However, what we should take note of are the people who influence us in our decisions and day-to-day life. Just as important it is to have biblical friends who lift you up when you are down, urge you on your walk with God, or even break down a roof to make sure you get healed, it is equally important to be a biblical friend to others as well—to be the salt and light, just as we are called to be. (Shruthi Susan is active in her church and is passionate about the various complex issues the Christian youth face in their individual journeys of faith and growth.)