Friendship

“From a list of possible steps individuals could take to improve racial dynamics in the country, building diverse relationships is the most popular response (67% all U.S. adults, 70% practicing Christians).” - Barna

“…the root of loneliness often results from the inability (often unintentionally) of pastors and congregants to separate the person from the position. This reality manifests in the life of the pastor’s wife as well.” - TGC

“Patience … . Remember we are not the Holy Spirit … . Trust the Spirit and pour over Scripture … Some truths are ‘first of all;’ in other words they’re primary truths” - Ligonier

“Consider how often Paul says something like: ‘I thank my God always when I remember you, because I hear of your love for all the saints’ …. in nearly every letter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, he devotes space to greeting specific believers” - 9 Marks

“Men appear to have suffered disproportionately in the collapse of friendships. In 1990, a majority (55%) of men had at least six close friends. Today, only 27% report having this number of close friendships. Single men are in even worse shape…” - IFS

“Do I need friends from different ideological camps? These questions, of course, are relevant to Christians: should we also value friendships like this?” - TGC

“There are friends that are truly friends and then there are those whose interest in you only relates to their benefit. There are several keys to a good friendship.” - P&D

“There is a kind of ministry that is without words, and sometimes the best way to help others is to simply share with them in their pain. As the preacher of Ecclesiastes said, there is ‘a time to speak and a time to keep silent’ ” (Eccl. 3:7). - Jake Bier