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God designed us to have friends. He created us for fellowship and to physically be around one another, to connect and grow. In other words, God really cares about our relationships.
They matter to Him! He knows by being surrounded by good friends, we can grow closer together by ultimately drawing closer to Him.
So, seeking and being a good friend is vital. But, what makes a good friend and how do you know if you have them or better yet, you are being one?
Proverbs 27:9 says a sweet friendship refreshes the soul.
That verse continues by saying... A sweet friendship awakens our hearts with joy, for good friends are like the anointing oil that yields the fragrant incense of God's presence.
Wow! We should all seek (and be) that kind of friend. A friend that refreshes the soul, bringing joy and an aroma of God's presence. Basically, seeing them live out a life that glorifies God!
Do you have friends like that? Are you that kind of friend?
This brings me to the three types of friends every girl should have. Let's take a closer look at the types of friends that God is calling us to, and calling us to be.
Mentor Friends- these friends are ones that are typically older and have experienced more of this life. They set an example of walking a life that honors Jesus. These are friends you can lean on for wisdom, support and guidance. This could be a youth pastor, an older family member or even an older friend. The beautiful thing about mentors is we all need them, but we can be them too! As you grow in your faith, God may use you one day to be a mentor as well.
Memory-Maker Friends- these are the friends you make memories with. They bring out the joy and laughter. They are the ones you enjoy being around, knowing that it doesn't matter what you're doing, you're just having fun! Not only that, but these friends love you - at all times. Disagreements may come, but grace and space are freely given and forgiveness is wrapped around this friendship too. Who doesn't love memory maker friends, right?!
Meaningful Friends- these are friends that are put into your life to love on. They are the people God calls you to "be-friend" because they need YOU. The new girl that is left-out. The one that is lost. The one that is lonely. The one that is sad or discouraged. The one that is different than you or doesn't know about Jesus. These are the friends you intentionally pour love into because you feel the Holy Spirit leading you to do so.
Remember that God places people in our lives for a reason. He longs for you to have safe, healthy and sweet friendships, but He also wants you to live with intent. To share with others Who He is! In doing so, you must give your heart to Him FIRST. Now is our time to be "present" with one another. To love and encourage each other. To share and do life together.
My prayer is that God blesses you with sweet friends and that He shows you how He can use you to bless others. Right now is your chance, go out and make an impact, girl!