Forming Christ-Centred Friendships

Have you ever heard the saying, ‘You are who you surround yourself with’?

This is a saying that people often greatly overlook... until their mum tells them to go look in the mirror and they realise that they are completely covered in face paint, and competent in juggling rubber chickens… all because they spent the last couple of weeks hanging out with a bunch of clowns. You may have been through a very similar situation in the past or you could even be going through it right now; except probably with less face-paint and fewer rubber chickens (I hope).

Similarly, The Lord tells us in 1 Corinthians 15:33, "Do not be misled; Bad company corrupts good character." In this verse we are reminded of the importance of surrounding ourselves with people of whom we are equally yolked. As Christians, the relationships we cultivate have a significant impact on our spiritual growth and walk with God.

Choosing Our Friends Wisely

The type of people we find company in plays a crucial role in shaping our character and influencing our beliefs and behaviour. When we surround ourselves with friends who share our faith and values, we are more likely to be encouraged, supported, and uplifted in our journey with Christ. Comparatively, if we get caught up in the wrong crowd, it can be so easy and tempting to slip into their sinful ways, and go against what we know is God's will.

The company you keep can be stronger than the convictions you hold, meaning that if you are consistently spending time in relationships with people who do not hold the same morals and values as you, you will be led astray. Proverbs 13:20 reminds us, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."

When choosing the society that you keep, ask yourself questions such as, Is this person going to bring me closer or further away from Christ? Are they running towards or away from righteousness? Do they hold the same morals and values as I do?

Friendship is a form of love; we should be reciprocating the unconditional love that God holds in His heart for us. So if you are able to truthfully tell yourself that they uphold God's definition of love (1 Corinthians 13:4-8), then they are a friend you want to have.

Finding Good Friends

Although it can be so difficult finding genuine, Christian friends in a world that is so drenched in darkness and sin, we have to remember that God has a plan much greater than anything we could ever imagine. He knows exactly what and who we need in our lives, and although a lot of the time, it doesn't align with what WE think we need, it is so important that we place our trust in Him, His plan, and His timing. He will bestow upon you beautiful friendships, you just need to have FAITH, and remember that before you can love anyone else, you have to learn to love God, because He IS love.

Pray to God, and ask Him to help you become a better friend, and possess the qualities that you are looking for in others. Ask Him to sow the fruits of the spirit in you, and let you be a vessel of His light and love. Stop thinking about you want to get out of a friendship; instead think about what you want to be able to give, because love is about giving, not taking. This way, you will attract beautiful Christ-Centered friendships! It is only when you both fully give yourself, that you can receive the other, and "become one flesh" (Mark 10:8).

Ultimately, forming Christ-centered friendships is a reflection of Christ's love for us. By loving and supporting one another in the way that Jesus loves us, we can be a light to the world and demonstrate the transformative power of God's love in our relationships. Let us surround ourselves with those who will uplift, encourage, and support us in our walk with Christ. May our friendships be a testament to God's love and grace, and may they bring glory to His name.