Choosing friends (part 3)

Proverbs 12:12“The righteous should choose his friends carefully,for the way of the wicked leads them astray”.

Suggestions to consider in choosing friends;
* Is this person spiritually mature and are they evidently in love with Jesus?
* Do they believe the fundamental doctrines of Christianity? (Salvation by faith in the Cross).
* Is this person a good influence on you?
* Has this person been a good influence on others?
* Does this person have a good testimony, and a consistent spiritual walk?
* Does your wife/parents/other friends like this person?
* How trustworthy are they? If you chose to become accountable to them over secret sins would they keep confidence?
* Are they encouraging or divisive by nature? Do they build up or destroy?
* When they are talking do they ‘harp’ on about the ‘same old thing’ or do they converse on a wide variety of topics?
* Do you generally talk about the Bible, Jesus and the things of God?
* Do you find that you often pray together?
* Do you enjoy this persons company?
* Do they have a good reputation among others or are they talked about behind backs?
* Would this person help, support and pray for you if you were in difficulties?
* Does this person give good, often biblically based and grounded advice?
* Are the fruits of the Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness & self control evident in this persons life?
* Are they argumentative with aggression or can they discuss differences of opinion in a graceful manner?
* Could you minister alongside them?
* Do you often share your problems, temptations and weaknesses with each other and pray together for each other?
* How has this person influenced your Christian walk so far in your friendship?
* What are their other friends like? Is there a possibility that their other friends may lead them astray?
* How have you helped their Christian walk since you have known them?

These are just some thoughts so far, feel free to suggest other considerations!