Friendship: Quick tips

Always give others the option to decline when inviting to an event or offering them something. People don’t like to be trapped. Putting them in such a situation will often incline them to react negatively.

Don’t get caught up about ‘meaningless’ conversation. Small talk is important to build relationships.

Good friendship and accountability are of equal importance. Hold on to good Christian friendships tight! They are your brothers and sisters! Make new friends and always try to be as friendly as you can be.

"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." (1 John 1:7)

God made you to find your deepest expectations in Jesus. Don’t expect any person to be your stabilising God-like figure. Only the triune God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) can be that for you.

[Jesus:] "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5)

If you wish you said something in a conversation, note it down as soon as you think about it. Don’t forget about what you wanted to say. Think about how to talk about it when you speak next. Relationships consist of numerous conversations. You can talk about that thing when you next speak to the person. You cannot change other peoples’ internet experiences. Talk and ask good questions to establish points of agreement to build relationships. Choose to show grace when people are unkind to you. Strive to be on good terms even with those who are only acquaintances.

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)

You cannot force anyone to self-disclose personal information about themselves (e.g. age, hobbies and interests, travel plans, etc.). People may reveal more about themselves as a relationship progresses. Trying to fast-track this process by asking deeply personal questions too early will most likely prove counterproductive.