Sometimes it is hard choosing friends while other times we don’t choose at all. Anytime someone walks into our life we may invite them to be friends. If that’s the case we end up with a lot of friends; and we may not be able to see who is truly a friend to those who only pose as friends and rip us down as our backs are turned. It is a hard concept to face sometimes. We want to think that our friends would be true to us no matter what, but sometimes even small groups of friends could be untrustworthy.

People always say “well they’re a true friend if…” and go on to fill in the blank in numerous different ways. There is no way of knowing for sure someone is a true friend by testing them or laying out the pros and cons. We have to pray and see it for ourselves. If we have doubts about something, don’t let it fester in your soul.

“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” – Proverbs 27:5-6

Love your true friends as God has put them in your life only to bless you. Friendship is a stronger bond than any other in our world today. You are supposed to be able to trust your friends and lean on them when you need a physical support. Don’t forget God is always with you and supports you, of course; but even He realizes you need someone physically in this life to share your woes with. You just have to be careful of who that person is. Trust in the wrong person can be dangerous.

‘Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” – Eccl 4:9-12

If you’re doubting a friendship, pray. Do not quiz your friends or start pestering them for their loyalty. A loyal friend may lose trust in you if you are doubting them. Just know that a bad friend is a friend that doesn’t do anything to improve your life. If they are negative or get you to do wrong things, they are not true; but if they remain positive and teach you good ways they are a true friend. For a friend who lives in sin and tells you to do the same is not a friend but an enemy of the Word. Be glad you are God’s friend first.