Have you ever wondered what makes a friendship truly special? The book of Proverbs has an answer for you.
Here’s a list of five key qualities of friendship listed in the book of Proverbs: Reliability, Loyalty, Wisdom, Encouragement, and Accountability.
These qualities are like the building blocks of strong and supportive friendships. When we have friends who are reliable, loyal, wise, encouraging, and accountable, we can be sure that our friendships will last a lifetime.
In this blog, we explore why these qualities are so important and how they can turn regular friendships into something truly amazing.
1. Reliability
A friend loves at all times – Proverbs 17:17
A reliable friend is like having a trustworthy helper in your life. They’re the kind of friends you can always depend on, whether things are going well or not so well.
When life gets tough, they shine a light of comfort and security. They’re like a safe place you can go to when you’re feeling down or need a hand.
Look for a friend you can count on, someone you can trust to be there for you when you need them.
Finding a friend like this is like discovering a treasure. So, when you do find such a friend, take good care of that friendship because it’s a precious and rare gift that can make life’s journey a lot brighter and smoother.
2. Loyalty
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother – Proverbs 18:24
Loyalty in friendship is a beautiful and vital quality that can make your bond with someone truly special. It goes beyond just being there when times are good; it’s about having a friend who stays with you through life’s ups and downs.
Loyalty means that you can trust your friend to be honest and true to you. Loyal friends are like a sturdy oak tree amidst a storm.
They will be a source of strength and encouragement, reminding you that you’re not alone in your journey through life.
When you find such a friend, cherish them, for their loyalty is a priceless gift that enriches your life and makes your friendship truly enduring and meaningful.
3. Wisdom
Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm – Proverbs 13:20
Wisdom is like a guiding light that can lead you to make better choices and navigate the complexities of life. When you seek friends who possess wisdom, you surround yourself with valuable sources of insight and guidance.
A wise friend is like a compass in the wilderness of life. When you’re faced with difficult choices or uncertain paths, they can help you find your way.
In a world where decisions can be challenging and consequences significant, having wise friends is a tremendous asset.
When you find friends who possess wisdom, treasure their presence in your life. Their guidance can be a source of inspiration and empowerment, helping you become a wiser and more thoughtful individual.
4. Encouragement
Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice – Proverbs 27:9
Encouragement is like sunshine for the soul, and having friends who provide it can be a true blessing. These are the friends who not only stand by you but also lift you up, filling your life with optimism and happiness.
An encouraging friend is like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. When you’re feeling down or disheartened, they offer words of kindness and motivation that can brighten your spirits. Their belief in your abilities can serve as a powerful source of inspiration.
In a world where challenges and setbacks are common, having encouraging friends is like having a shield against negativity.
When you find friends who bring encouragement into your life, treasure them deeply. Their uplifting presence can make your journey through life more enjoyable and fulfilling.
5. Accountability
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another – Proverbs 27:17
Accountability in friendship is like having a compass that keeps you headed in the right direction. Friends who hold you accountable are invaluable because they encourage your personal growth and help you make positive choices.
An accountable friend is like a mirror that reflects your actions and decisions. When you need guidance or a reality check, they provide honest feedback and hold you responsible for your choices.
In a world where it’s easy to make excuses or take the easy path, accountable friends act as a source of motivation and discipline.
When you find friends who promote accountability in your life, cherish them deeply. Their influence can be a catalyst for personal growth and positive change.
Final Words
The qualities of reliability, loyalty, wisdom, encouragement, and accountability, which we learn from the Book of Proverbs, help us make strong and meaningful connections with others.
It’s important to consider whether we have these qualities in our friendships. Are we the kind of friend others can trust and depend on when they need help?
Do we stay loyal and supportive to our friends? Can we give good advice and encourage our friends to grow? Do we and our friends take responsibility for what we do?
Remember, as we look for good friends, we should also try to be good friends. This way, we can help make a world where real, supportive, and long-lasting friendships exist. It’s a world where the qualities we learn from Proverbs make our lives and the lives of those we care about better.
