How to Truly Help Your Friend

Friendship is one of the most precious gifts we can offer and receive in life. Being a true friend means more than just sharing good times—it means standing by each other in every season, through joy and sorrow alike. Here are four powerful ways you can truly help your friend, no matter what they’re going through.

Rejoice with Them

One of the simplest yet most meaningful ways to support a friend is to rejoice with them in their successes and happiness. When your friend receives good news, celebrate it with them! The Bible tells us to “Rejoice with those who rejoice” (Romans 12:15a), recognizing that there is a time to laugh and a time to dance (Ecclesiastes 3:4). By joining in their joy, you not only strengthen your bond but also show that you genuinely care about their happiness. It’s important to avoid jealousy or envy when your friend is blessed. Instead, share in their joy, knowing that they will likely do the same for you when your time comes.

Weep with Them

Just as it’s important to rejoice with your friend, it’s equally vital to be there for them during their difficult times. The latter part of Romans 12:15 tells us to “weep with those who weep.” Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes all we need is someone to sit with us in our sorrow. As Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us, there is “a time to weep” and “a time to mourn.” When your friend is hurting, being present and sharing in their pain can provide immense comfort. A true friend, as Proverbs 17:17 says, “loves at all times,” and there’s no better way to show love than by standing by your friend when they need it the most.

Be with Them

Physical presence can be incredibly comforting, especially when someone is going through a tough time. The wisdom of Solomon in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights the value of companionship: “Two are better than one…For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” Simply being there for your friend, whether in times of joy or sorrow, can make all the difference. Even in the small moments, your presence reassures them that they’re not alone. Whether it’s sharing a meal, spending time together in silence, or just offering a listening ear, being with your friend reinforces the bond of friendship and provides them with the strength to keep going.

Tell Them the Truth

One of the most challenging but necessary aspects of friendship is telling the truth, even when it’s difficult. Imagine your friend is headed down a dangerous path—wouldn’t you warn them? A real friend will have the courage to speak up, even if it risks upsetting the other person. Proverbs 27:6 says, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy.” True friends care enough to be honest, even if it means having tough conversations. If you see your friend making choices that could lead to harm, gently and lovingly offer guidance. They may not always appreciate it in the moment, but in the long run, they will recognize the love behind your words.

Conclusion

Being a true friend involves much more than just being there for the fun times. It means sharing in your friend’s joy, standing by them in sorrow, being present in their lives, and speaking the truth in love. These four ways to help a friend—rejoicing, weeping, being there, and telling the truth—are fundamental to building deep, lasting friendships that reflect the love and care that God calls us to show one another.

What other ways have you found to be a good friend? Whether it’s offering practical help, praying together, or simply listening, the key is to be there in a way that truly supports and uplifts your friend. Friendship is a gift from God, and by nurturing these relationships, we honor Him and bring His love into the lives of those around us.

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