What does it take to be a true friend? How can we help our children, especially our sons, find a true friend? Read on for the great, practical tips for doing just that.

Scripture

“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. This I command you, that you love one another.”

John 15:12-17

Reflect

Are you a Christ-follower? Are you His?  Yes?  Then you are His friend.  As His friend we have purpose to love and bear fruit.  
 
What qualities do you look for in a true friend? Do you have such qualities? If not, what will it take to become such a friend?
 
Too many times teenage guys fall into a trap, believing that only a (girl) friend really listens, understands, cares and believes in him. We certainly need friend-girls, but we need to be careful, honest and intentional in the level and depth of our discoveries and sharing of deep feelings.
 
A guy to guy relationship includes taking interest in and having concern for the betterment of another. Shared interest can be in sports, studies, cars, space, discovery and adventure events, muscle building, movies and list goes on.  It does not look like you’re campaigning to be class president, rather it’s letting people know they have value and worth.

Proverbs 18:34 says “a man of too many friends comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” A true friend has your best interest at heart and is willing to stand alone with you. A true friend is not impressed with promises or fancy stuff, rather a listening ear, helping hand and consistent presence.

Camper Corner

Be a game changer by looking upward (to God), inward (personal character) and outward (to build and encourage another) in making and being a true friend. Let me know how it goes…TAG you’re it. Jp