A sweet friendship refreshes the soul.

 Proverbs 27:9b MSG

Once, I was sharing something with a friend. She stopped what she was doing, turned toward me, and gave me her full attention. It was a very busy time for her, but she still stopped everything. It struck me how this made me feel; valued, loved, and my words were important to her. It was a slight gesture that weighed tons in my soul. 

This made me realize how important it is to give someone my full attention when they are sharing with me. I also realized that she was the kind of person I wanted as a friend.

Another special person in my life showed me how important it is to balance the conversation by asking them what’s going on in his/her life. If you pay attention to conversations you have with others, many times, they are one sided. You ask them how they are doing and they tell you, but don’t think to ask you in return.

Here are some thoughts on what makes a good friend:

·      Make time with them a priority. Life is so busy, so schedule time for them. 

·      Stay in touch and show interest by finding out what is going on.

·      Be careful not to monopolize conversations, talking only about yourself.

·      Be a good listener. Listen to understand, not to plan your next response. Check your body language. Are you communicating your interest? 

·      Ask them how you can pray for them and diligently do so. Later, check in to get an update. 

·      Do kind things for them. It shows you are thinking about them. 

·      Give your time sacrificially when she needs you. In the event of a difficult life event, prepare a meal or seek a way you can support her.

How would you rate yourself as a friend? I certainly have some growing to do. Let’s commit to doing just that. I feel so loved by Jesus when someone loves me well, so I want to love those God has given me. 

Jesus, thank you for showing us how to love others sacrificially. Help us love like You do. 

Johna Clemons