7 Traits of a True Friend: A Bible-Based Guide to Friendship

When it comes to friends, there are a few characteristics that truly define what it means to be a "good" friend. Here are some key traits to look for in a true friend, along with relevant Bible verses:

1. Comfort and support during difficult times. One of the most important roles of a friend is to offer comfort and support during difficult times. Whether it's a breakup, a loss, or a tough time at work, a true friend will be there to offer a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on. As it states in Job 2:11, "Now when Job's three friends heard of all this evil that had come upon him, they came each from his own place, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. They made an appointment together to come to show him sympathy and comfort him."
2. Devotion. A friend should be someone who is dedicated and devoted to their relationship with you. This means they'll be there for you, even when things get tough or you're feeling down. As stated in Job 6:14, "A despairing man should have the devotion of his friends, even though he forsakes the fear of the almighty
3. Unconditional love. A true friend loves you for who you are, without any conditions or expectations. They accept you for who you are and don't try to change you. John 15:13 states "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends."
4. Transparency and honesty. A good friend should be open and transparent in their communication with you. They should be willing to speak honestly and constructively, even if it may be uncomfortable. Proverbs 27:6 states "Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy."
5. Help and support when you're down. A friend should be there to help and support you when you're going through a tough time. They'll offer a helping hand and be there to lift you up. Proverbs 17:17 states "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
6. Intimate knowledge of your affairs. A true friend has a deep understanding of your life and experiences. They know you well and are able to offer valuable advice and guidance. John 15:15 states "No longer do I call you servants,[1] for the servant[2] does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you."
7. Making your life better. A friend's presence in your life should make it better. They offer good advice and counsel that can improve your life. Proverbs 27:9 states "Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel."

In conclusion, a true friend is someone who embodies all of these qualities and more. They offer comfort and support during difficult times, are devoted to their relationship with you, love you unconditionally, communicate openly and honestly, help and support you when you're down, have intimate knowledge of your affairs, and make your life better through their presence and advice. It is important to surround ourselves with people who have these characteristics as they are the ones who will be there for us in good and bad times. As Proverbs 18:24 says "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."