Rate yourself on a scale from one to ten. How good of a friend are you? How can you improve your friendship skills?

Understanding people’s preferences in friendships will save you hurt and confusion. People that like to have lots of friends may tend to forget you; people who like to have a few close friends may get hurt if you aren’t always checking up to see how they’re doing. Evaluate your friendships. What types of personalities do your friends possess? How can you understand your friends’ unique ways better?

Everyone wants a friend who’s loyal, trustworthy and kind. The question is…are you that type of friend? If you want to find a good friend, it’s a good idea to start being the friend you want to find first. Read Proverbs 17:17 and 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. Have you seen this kind of love from a friend in your life?

Have you tried to talk to your friend about your friendship? By finding out how they feel, you may realize that they are thinking or feeling the same way as you. Open communication is a good way to resolve struggles in a friendship. Is there ever a time to let go of a friendship, and if so, what cautions would you advise?

Is there a secret you are keeping in your life? This secret may keep you from wanting to get close to anyone. Maybe it’s time you confided in someone, who is willing to help you. Another reason from restraining from a close friendship could be that you have been hurt from a previous one. Realize that no two people are the same. Just because the last person hurt you, doesn’t mean this one will. What other obstacles could block friendships? (What obstacles to friendship are highlighted in Proverbs 16:28, 17:9 and 22:24?)

Should you ever your beliefs or morals for the sake of a friendship? A real friend will respect what you believe and think. If they aren’t doing this, then it’s advisable to talk to them about it, and maybe even break off the friendship.

How often do you spend time with your friends? Do you make the effort to encourage and compliment them? Should you add to the amount of time and energy you invest in your relationships, and if so, how? When building new friendships, what are some practical ideas? How can you cherish your friends more? Ask God to give you the strength to see truly how special your friends are. Thank God that he has given you friends, and ask him to help you value them more.