Choosing Friends

Introduction

God made us to be in fellowship with one another. Friendships can be the bond and strength that helps overcome our toughest adversities as we trust and lean on one another. Choosing solid friends helps make life easier and our triumphs more meaningful!

In high school, over 25 years ago, I had two close Christian teammates. As friends, we prayed together and read the Bible on a regular basis. I graduated from a class of over 550 people, but still regularly keep in touch with those friends because of our bond in Christ. 

Application

1. What makes a good friend?
2. What is the number one component to you of a great friend?
3. What strengthens our friendships within our team and in our lives? 

Bridge

1. Read Ecclesiastes 4:9-12: “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls, and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
2. Describe the benefits listed here of good friends.
3. Read 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”
4. What does this teach about the friends we choose? How can we avoid compromising our character and good morals? 

Connection

1. What do we learn about the power of friendships from Ecclesiastes 4? 
2. What is the third strand described in Ecclesiastes that strengthens our friendships the most?
3. How does choosing quality friends benefit us as Christians?

Discovery

Solid dependable friendships are the key to great success! We can celebrate with one another on the mountaintops as well as pull each other up through the valleys. Choose friends wisely and seek those that cherish the same things you do for your team, your personal success, and spiritual growth as a believer. 

Close

Memory verse: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17