What are you looking for in a friend?
I hear from so many people that they struggle with friendships, and I absolutely relate. Though I have a lot of acquaintances, it’s always been hard for me to find really good friends – the kind who are like-minded, reliable, and who I enjoy being around. I’ve lived in a few different cities and I’ve struggled to make friends in each one, no matter the size. As I get older and remain unmarried, I also find it increasingly difficult to make friends my age, because most people in their mid-to-late 30s are in a very different stage of life than I am. It’s not their fault or mine; it just makes it extra challenging when our lives and schedules contrast so much. At the same time, it’s getting a bit harder for me to relate to those who are in their early 20s, nor do they seem especially drawn to me. (What can I say? I continue to wear my skinny jeans proudly and don’t plan on stopping! 😉)
If I made a wish list of what I’d like in a best friend, it would look something like this:
Though many of these qualities seem pretty basic, they still can be hard to find. Yet the truth persists: God did not create us to be alone.
The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
Genesis 2:18 NIV
Yes, the above verse describes how God fashioned the first-ever marriage, but I still think the principle applies to all of us: God didn’t intend for any of his people to do life alone. That tells me friendship is something worth valuing, investing in, and consulting God about.
The Bible also says:
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.
Ecclesiastes 4:9 NLT
Godly friends may seem like hidden gems, but they do exist. It may be a matter of being in the right place at the right time, but when you are walking with the Lord, he will bring you to the right places and put the right people in front of you.
I would love to hear from you in the comments! What traits are you looking for in a friend? What are the characteristics you have a hard time finding in today’s society?
Here is my challenge to you: Whatever you wrote on your list, BE that kind of friend. This type of person absolutely exists, especially if you become that person for others. Like attracts like, so I pray right now that God brings the right people into your life. May they be drawn to you like magnets so that you can be a blessing to each other through the gift of God-ordained friendship. 🙏🏼 Your people are out there!
Hey! I'm Brianna and I'm a millennial. I'm also a reader, writer, God-lover, introvert, and recovering perfectionist. ☺️ I want to inspire millennials to retain their morality, hope, and faith as they transition into adulthood and full-fledged "adult."
