Most have heard the saying, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” Rewards rarely come without risk, and relationships are no exception. When we open our hearts to a potential friendship, we stand to gain joy, support, fellowship, and love.
On the other side of the coin, relationships can cause hurt and heartache. If we’ve been burned by a friend in the past, we might be tempted to avoid the risk.
Since God designed us for the fellowship of friendship, we can trust Him with the risks associated with opening our hearts to others. We need not fear the possible pain because God will help us to navigate the choppy waters of human interaction.
Consider opening your heart and home to possible friendship with these ideas:
- Serve in the church nursery or Sunday school.
- Invite coworkers to join you to read and discuss a weekly lunchtime devotion.
- Sign up for a small group at church or offer to host one in your home.
- Call someone to join your next shopping trip.
- Bake cookies and invite some neighbors over for tea.
- Ask someone to get lunch after church with you.
The Opportunity of Friendship
Friendship offers the opportunity for the highest form of love. Jesus said, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13 NLT). He risked everything to bring us into His circle of friendship. No doubt friendship brings much personal joy and meaning into our lives, but it serves a higher purpose as well. Relationships allow us to reflect the light of Christ that leads others into a closer relationship with Him.
Which of these seven ways to make and keep friends can you use to enrich your life?
Photo credit: ©Toa Heftiba/Unsplash
Annie Yorty
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