WHAT KIND OF FRIEND ARE YOU?

I am quite impressed with the woman who shared her qualifications for forming new friendships.  "I pay attention when I'm in a group of women. If I hear anyone criticizing her husband, I'm sure we will not become close friends."

This gal was making choices that were pleasing to God, and based on His Word. God never forces us into relationships that would cause us to live less than holy lives. No, we are free to choose our friendships. Proverbs 4:23 admonishes us to . . . "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." She continued to share with me, that when she heard others complaining about their husbands and home-life, it became easy for her to come alongside them and chime in about the disappointments in her marriage. "So it's just best" she said, "that I remove myself from the temptation."

How discerning for this young wife and mother to look for friendships that are both honoring to God and edifying to self. Friendships with women who love the Lord are very important. But it's equally important to carefully examine the matters of the heart that we share with our girlfriends. I've witnessed too many conversations that took a wrong turn and ended up as gossip fodder. It can happen in a moment. That's why we must guard our hearts before opening our mouths! 

I have learned to go to God first, when I'm troubled. After pouring it all out, I ask Him to let me know if I should share with a trusted girlfriend. He always gives me a sense of what to do. Sometimes, I know that the matter is between the two of us, and there's no need to consult with another. At other times, I know I'm to share my concern so that my girlfriend and I can pray over it together.

Friend, there's no one who knows you like your Heavenly Father knows you. You are created in HIS image, remember? Loving Him first, is always the right choice. He then shows you how to love (and share with) others.

May we remember that our greatest FRIENDSHIP is the one we have with Christ Jesus. By growing that holy friendship first, we will become a better friend to those around us.

Dear Jesus, may Your Spirit prompt me when I am about to criticize another. May my conversation always be filled with only uplifting and encouraging comments. If there is something unfavorable I’m aware of – help me to keep my mouth shut instead of speaking negatively - even if true, to others around me. By Your grace, help me to be like You, Jesus, with words that edify and build others up, rather than tearing them down. Amen.

“Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.” Proverbs 10:19 NLT