“The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.”
Psalm 19:1
In today’s world, building and maintaining healthy relationships can often feel like navigating through a maze. With so many distractions and conflicting values, it can be hard to know where to turn when seeking genuine friendships and meaningful community. As Christians, we have a clear model of how to build relationships that reflect God’s love and truth. Let’s explore how we can navigate towards healthy friendships and community the way God intended.
Start with a solid foundation in Christ
Before we can build meaningful and healthy relationships with others, we must first have a firm foundation in our relationship with Christ. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus gives us the two greatest commandments: to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Loving God first is key because it transforms the way we relate to others. When we understand God’s love for us, we are better equipped to share that love with others in our friendships.
Prioritize God-Centered Friendships
Jesus is the ultimate example of what a perfect friend looks like. In John 15:13, He tells His disciples, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” A healthy friendship begins with a foundation of mutual love for God and each other. When both individuals or groups put God first, it helps align their hearts, priorities, and actions. Seek out close friends who share your values, your faith, and your desire to grow in Christ. Such friendships will foster an environment of spiritual encouragement, accountability, and support.
Be a friend who serves
One of the most important characteristics of a Biblical friendship is service. Jesus exemplified this when He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:1-17). True friendship isn’t about what we can get, but about what we can give. Look for ways to serve your friends—whether through acts of kindness, prayer, or simply offering your time and attention. A servant-hearted friend is a reflection of Christ’s love in action.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Transparency is essential for healthy relationships. This sharpening process involves open, honest communication. Healthy friendships allow space for vulnerability, forgiveness, sharing joys, struggles, and prayers. In turn, these conversations can deepen your trust in one another and your faith in God. Don’t shy away from speaking the truth in love, as Ephesians 4:15 encourages us to do. It may be difficult at times, but honest communication is the cornerstone of growth in any relationship.
Be Intentional in Building Relationships
Healthy friendships don’t just happen; they require time, effort, and intentionality. Proverbs 18:24 reminds us, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Building deep and lasting friendships takes time. This might mean inviting someone to coffee, offering a listening ear, or reaching out to someone who may be in need. Intentionality also means making room in your life for others, which can sometimes require sacrifice, but it is worth it for the kingdom of God.
seek friends who have grace to love you, mercy to cover you, and the capacity to celebrate you. (Within the will of God)
Engage in a Community of Believers
God’s design for our growth isn’t just about one-on-one friendships, but about participating in a broader community of believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another…” We need community for encouragement, accountability, and to keep each other focused on Christ. Whether it’s a small group, church community, or a Christian fellowship, make sure to invest in relationships where you can grow together in your faith.
In conclusion
Navigating towards healthy friendships and a God-centered community is a journey that requires intentional effort, faith, and grace. As we build relationships that honor God, we experience the beauty of His design for human connection—relationships that encourage, strengthen, and point us back to Him. When we walk in alignment with His will, we will find ourselves surrounded by friendships that reflect His love and support us in our walk of faith.
Lord may we always seek to build friendships that honor you, strengthen our faith, and reflect your love to the world around us.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
allgrowtogether, Christian life coaching. 