We all know good friends shape who we are. Our kids don’t always realize that. It’s important that we help them understand how important it is to have good Christian friends. 1 Corinthians 15:33 says, “Bad company corrupts good character” (NIV). Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm” (NIV). How do we help our kids pick friends, especially since we want them to share their faith? It’s important for us to distinguish the difference between a friendly relationship and a deep friendship. As Christians, we should always be kind, providing opportunities to share Christ. But, deep friendships are investments—giving and taking emotionally. Is what we’re receiving from people honoring God?

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Suggested Reading: Proverbs 13:20, Proverbs 18:24, 1 Corinthians 15:33