Just Friends~Chapter 2~

Chapter 2-A Biblical view of Guy/Girl relationships

• God gives attractions,and God gives friendships-Pg. 17

• It is more about establishing healthy friendships than it is about falling in love.It's more about growing close to God and walking with Him than it is about growing close to a boyfriend or girlfriend.It's about preparing for a lifetime of love than it is about finding a temporary one.-Pg. 18

• You will most likely one day give your whole life to another person as spouse.And while it may seem far off,right now you are preparing for that day.You are becoming the person your spouse will marry-Pg. 18

• View all young adult attractions and friendships through this thought-I am preparing for God's will-Pg. 18

• If your not ready to get married,why act like you're married-especially with someone who will most likely be someone else's spouse?It's much wiser to focus on keeping God first and then on developing godly friendships that will prepare you for what is to come.-Pg. 18-19

PRINCIPLES OF GUY/GIRL FRIENDSHIPS:
1.Godly friendship is a good thing

• Pro. 17:17,It is a good thing when guys and girls can be together in ways that honor the Lord and sharpen their lives for God's glory.Good friendships do much to prepare you spiritually,socially,and relationally for a wonderful future

2.Guy/Girl attraction is a natural thing
        Gen. 2:18
3.Guy/Girl relationships should be Bible-based

• The Bible ought to be the center of a godly friendship.It is the relationship manual for mature Christian young people.It will keep you clean (Ps. 119:9)and in the center of God's will(Rom. 12:1-2).

4.Godly friendship is about fellowship
John 1:3,Acts 2:42

• Simply put,you should be a better Christian because of your friendships.

• Your friendships should be Christ-focused,and others-focused.

• Mature Christians find their acceptance and love in Christ,and then their friendships are focused more on fellow-shipping and serving.

• Your goal as a Christian in your friendship ought to be to help that person grow in the Lord and be the best person he or she can be for God.

• Decide now that you will learn from the person you are attracted to and that you will help them learn from you.See their weaknesses and strengths,and try to help them grow.Pro. 27:17

 5.Healthy friendships are a means to the end

• The road that leads to marriage begins with  real,authentic,godly friendships.

• The moments you spend with friends in godly environments help you learn to relate,to mature,to connect,and to honor Christ.

  6.Guy/Girl attractions should be between Christians
Amos 3:3,2 Cor. 6:14

• Light cannot have fellowship with darkness

• Don't even entertain the idea of being attracted yo a non-Christian.You will not reform them-they will reform you.

• Wise Christians will only establish close friendships with strong Christians