Friendship

Friendship

Friendships with females involve unique pressures and temptations for men. Does the Bible offer any guidelines?

God’s Response

Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. . . . Be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. Ephesians 5:3-4, 15

Friendships with women are an important part of most men’s lives—but also a powerful source of temptation. Jesus had many female friends, some of whom even traveled with him from time to time (see Luke 8:1-3), so it is appropriate to have healthy friendships with women. Married men must be careful to ensure that friendship with a woman does not lead to inappropriate emotional intimacy, thus betraying the trust and commitment he shares with his wife. Here are three ways to safeguard yourself: never be alone with a female friend; avoid talking with women about your marital problems; always treat women with great respect. If it helps, imagine that an outsider is watching and evaluating your interactions.

God’s Promise

God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. Matthew 5:8