Friendship is one of God's most precious gifts. The Bible offers wisdom about building solid friendships and maintaining relationships that reflect His love. Whether you’re looking for encouragement or guidance on being a good friend, Scripture contains verses that inspire kindness, loyalty, and faithfulness.
Below, 25 short Bible verses about friendship are perfect for reflection, sharing with a friend, or even memorizing.
1. Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
This verse reminds us that true friends are steadfast, offering support during life’s challenges.
2. Ecclesiastes 4:9
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.
Friendship brings strength and productivity. Together, we can achieve more than we could alone.
3. John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
Jesus teaches the ultimate example of love and sacrifice in friendships.
4. Proverbs 18:24
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Choose your friends wisely; true friends are loyal and dependable.
5. Proverbs 27:17
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Friendship should encourage growth and challenge us to become better.
6. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Good friends uplift each other with words of encouragement.
7. Proverbs 27:9
Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.
The counsel of a good friend is as refreshing as a sweet fragrance.
8. Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.
Friendships thrive on forgiveness and understanding.
9. Job 6:14
Anyone who withholds kindness from a friend forsakes the fear of the Almighty.
Kindness is essential in building and maintaining friendships.
10. Proverbs 22:11
One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.
Graceful and sincere speech fosters meaningful relationships.
11. Romans 12:10
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
True friendship places love and respect above selfish desires.
12. Proverbs 16:28
A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.
Avoid gossip and negativity to protect your friendships.
13. Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Kindness and forgiveness mirror God’s love in friendships.
14. James 5:16
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.
Spiritual friendships include prayer and mutual support.
15. Proverbs 27:6
Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.
A true friend offers honest feedback, even when it’s difficult to hear.
16. Luke 6:31
Do to others as you would have them do to you.
This Golden Rule is a cornerstone for strong friendships.
17. Proverbs 12:26
The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
Choose friends who align with your values and encourage righteousness.
18. Philippians 2:4
Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Friendship thrives on selflessness and looking out for one another.
19. 1 Peter 4:8
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
Deep love in friendship leads to grace and understanding.
20. Proverbs 11:25
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Generosity and kindness enrich friendships and bring joy.
21. Galatians 6:2
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Good friends help lighten each other’s burdens.
22. Proverbs 13:20
Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.
The friends we surround ourselves with influence our lives.
23. Hebrews 10:24
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Friends encourage each other to live lives of purpose and goodness.
24. Psalm 133:1
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!
Unity and harmony in friendships are blessings from God.
25. John 15:15
I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends.
Jesus Himself calls us friends, demonstrating the value and depth of this relationship.
Reflect on These Verses
These short Bible verses about friendship highlight the qualities that make relationships strong and enduring. Share them with friends to remind them of God’s love and the gift of friendship.
