What makes a good friend?

a good friend will bail you out of jail

a great friend will be sitting next to you in the jail cell saying "that was so much fun!"

Morning Neighbor,

You have asked a very good question. Some people have the warped idea that money, power, fame and even physical appearance determines who you should have as a close friend. None of those, however, are the foundation for a good lasting friendship.

Friendship is a two-way street involving the spirit of giving. Introverts and those of selfish tendencies find it difficult to make true friends. True friendship grows out of love because love draws people. True friends are not only honest but also considerate, never imposing on each other or being overly possessive. They understand each other, can sense the other person's view of things, and can show empathy. As the relationship grows, they open their hearts to each other, becoming not only true friends but close friends. Not all true friends are "close" friends. Jesus Christ, the friendliest person ever on earth, made many friends, but only a few were really close friends.(Mark 9:1-10; Luke 8:51)

The Bible, by far is the best book on the subject of friendship. At Proverbs 17:17 it says: "A true companion is loving all the time, and is a brother that is born for when there is distress."(NWT) True friends are compassionate and ready to provide help when problems arise. An excellent example of of that is also in the Bible; Ruth and the close relationship she had with her mother in law. When you have a moment read Ruth chapter 1. Ruth showed real empathy, kindness, loyalty and love. Those qualities form the solid basis of true friendship.

What about friendship on a higher plane? Using the awesome example of Ruth again, in Ruth 1:16 Ruth said: "Do not plead with me to abandon you, .... for where you go I shall go.... Your people will be my people, and YOUR GOD MY GOD." Naomi had helped Ruth, formerly a pagan, to know and love the true God Jehovah. Their shared belief became a powerful spiritual bond drawing the two women together as true friends. Yes, this spiritual factor puts friendship on a higher plane. How so?

Well, “God is love,” and if we sincerely worship him with spirit and truth, we are sure to grow in love for him and fellow creatures. (1 John 4:8; John 4:24) Thus, we change. We develop a friendly interest in others, especially the meek, suffering people of all races. Introverts thus become less self-centered. Selfish people develop concern for others. We begin to display the fruitage of God’s spirit—“love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control.”—Galatians 5:22, 23.

These qualities help us to develop the vital ability to forgive weaknesses and mistakes in others. As a result of all this spiritual development, our circle of friends grows. Eventually, we find that we belong to a vast, global family of friends! We also find that the general standard of our friends is much higher.

Some Guidelines for True Friendship:

Be selective about those with whom you associate.(1 Corinthians 15:33 "Do not be misled. Bad associations spoil useful habits.") Friends should have your same moral, ethical standards and always encourage and support you in doing what is right.

Take a warm interest in others, and be a good listener.

Do things together—shared experiences strengthen friendship.

Be frank, open, and sincere at all times.

Show empathy and compassion when others are in trouble.

When friends make mistakes or upset you, be ready to forgive—even “up to seventy-seven times.”—Matthew 18:22.

When friends are slandered or unfairly criticized, be loyal and defend them.

Shared worship of Jehovah immeasurably strengthens friendship.

I hope this was helpful in answering your question of "What makes a good friend?"

Unwavering loyalty, trust, being a good listener, knowing when space is needed and when it is not.