What quality do you value most in a friend?
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” — Proverbs 17:17
Have you ever had a “friend” who ghosted you just when life hit the fan? Or maybe someone who smiled in your face but fed your name to the gossip wolves five minutes later? Yeah… not exactly the kind of friendship God designed.
Honesty & Loyalty: The Dynamic Duo
If I had to pick just one quality I value most in a friend, I’d cheat and pick two: honesty and loyalty. Because let’s be real — you can’t have one without the other. A loyal friend tells you the truth, even when it stings. An honest friend stays by your side, even when you’re not your most lovable self.
And spoiler alert: These aren’t optional traits in godly friendships. They’re biblical.
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” — Proverbs 27:6
Translation? A real friend will tell you your breath stinks or your attitude needs a resurrection — and still show up to help you through it. That’s loyalty. That’s love. That’s Jesus-level friendship.
The Original Betrayal: Jesus & Judas
Now let’s talk about betrayal, the ugly twin of disloyalty. Cue Judas Iscariot — the man whose name is now basically synonymous with backstabbing.
Jesus handpicked twelve disciples. Judas was one of them. He wasn’t an outsider or some distant critic — he was in the circle. Ate the bread. Heard the parables. Saw the miracles. And still… he sold Jesus out for 30 silver coins (Matthew 26:14-16).
Jesus knew it was coming. And He still washed Judas’ feet at the Last Supper. Just let that sink in. Ultimate loyalty met ultimate betrayal — and Jesus still loved him.
“Jesus replied, ‘Do what you came for, friend.’ Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.” — Matthew 26:50
Even in the moment of betrayal, Jesus called Judas “friend.” Not because Judas acted like one, but because Jesus never stopped being one.
So… What Kind of Friend Are You?
This isn’t just about having better friends. It’s about being one. If you crave friends who are loyal and honest, ask yourself — Am I that kind of friend to others? Or do I run when things get messy?
We’re called to love deeply, speak truthfully, and stand faithfully.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13
That’s the Jesus standard. No fake smiles. No disappearing acts. No betrayal in the comments section.
Final Thoughts (A Holy Nudge)
Let’s ditch the Judas tendencies. Let’s be the friend who sticks, who speaks truth, and who mirrors Jesus.
Because in a world full of filters, flakiness, and fleeting connections — a loyal and honest friend is a rare jewel. And if you’ve got one (or you are one), praise God… and never let go.
Call to Action: Have you ever felt betrayed by a friend? Or do you have a “ride-or-die” friend who’s been a blessing in your life? Share your story in the comments — let’s talk real friendship.
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