A true friend will hurt when you hurt, and will tell the truth even when it may hurt to be told. A good friend will always bring out the best in you. Most of us will agree that friendships enrich our lives and make us happier. But we need to care about the kind of friends we keep. BETTY AMUKPO takes on some children on a simple task. An exercise that demanded them to define, ‘Who is your friend?’ Hear them:
‘Friendship is God’s gift to us, but we have to choose wisely’
A friend is someone who gives pleasant and sincere advice. A friend is someone who can bring joy, comfort and meaningful things to my life, celebrates my success and accepts me for whom I am. Without friends, life will be boring and lonely, but not all friends are worth our time, some are worth dying to keep and others only lead to disappointment, regret and sorrow. According to Proverbs 18:24, “There are friends who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. True friends forgive each other if they have a quarrel. Friendship is God’s gift to us, but we have to choose wisely. True friends clothe themselves in compassion, kindness, bearing with one another, and forgiving one another (Colossians 3:12-13). My greatest friend is Jesus. He is my best friend. He is my light and my salvation; He directs my paths and forgives me anytime I wronged Him.
• Anita Chima
‘Onyeka, my friend is a rare gem, embodying an exceptional combination of qualities’
The name of my friend is Onyeka. Onyeka is, undeniably a rare gem, embodying an exceptional combination of qualities that sets him apart from his peers. His sociable nature and upbeat disposition makes him an absolute delight to be around with. Not only is he talented, handsome, and intelligent, but he is also incredibly kind, always seeking out opportunities to assist others. The Bible advises us to display kindness and compassion, forgiving one another just as God forgives us (Ephesians 4:32). With his remarkable qualities, Onyeka unquestionably, epitomises this scripture. It comes as no surprise that he has the admiration and respect of those around him.
• Arnold Kamsy Akalezi
‘By giving His life for others, Jesus demonstrates what true friendship looks like’
A friend is someone who shows his affection and love at all times, by supporting your ideas, interests and goals. One who walks beside you when the rest of the world walks out. Anything is possible, when you have a right friend there to be your support in adversity (Proverbs 17:17). By giving His life for others, Jesus demonstrates what true friendship looks like, and He refers to His followers as friends (John 15:13-15). Jesus is your best friend. He is the one you should go to before going to anyone for help, counsel, comfort, etc.
• Sobayo Rita
‘My true friend is Jesus Christ’
A true friend is someone who hears me out, understands my thoughts, and feelings, encourages and stands by me through life’s ups and downs. My friend is the person that embraces me for who I am, without judgement; offers assistance, advice, and guidance when needed. My friend cares for me unconditionally, through thick and thin. (John 15:15). A true friend is rare and my true friend is Jesus Christ. Make Jesus Christ your friend and you won’t regret doing it.
• Agbo Josephine
‘My friend Michelle has unwavering positivism and faith that shines through her interactions with others’
My friend Michelle is an incredible person who brings so much joy into the world. Her kindness, intelligence, and inner beauty lights up any room whenever she enters. She has an amazing ability to make everyone smile and laugh, spreading happiness wherever she goes. Her unwavering positivism and faith shine through in her interactions with others. Proverbs 11:25 beautifully captures her spirit, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Michelle embodies these words by always going the extra mile to uplift and support those around her. Her joyful nature and wonderful character truly make the world a better place.
• Blossom Somto Akalezi
‘A friend is someone who enjoins one to do good and forbids evil’
A friend is someone who enjoins one to do good and forbids evil. He is someone with good character and challenges one to do what is good with love. It’s confirmed in the book of 1 Corinthians 15:33 which states; “Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character”.
• Eyinade Gideon
‘A friend is a trustworthy person’
A friend is a trustworthy person, someone who is always there whenever you need him or her. Proverbs 18: 24 states,” Some friendships do not last but some are more loyal than brothers. This is as true as night and day. Siblings may fall apart, true friendships stand. All these define a friend indeed.
• Obhakhan Theresa Ohin
‘My friend is that someone who accepts me unconditionally’
My friend is that someone who accepts me unconditionally, helps me grow, supports me in tough times, and increases my ability to love myself. Jesus is my best friend. He is the one I go to before going to anyone for help, counsel, comfort, etc. He also shows me how to be a good friend and what a true friend looks like, as he demonstrated this with the disciples. Jesus can also be your friend if you do what he commands you to do. (John 15:12-15).
• Mary Peace Oche
‘First, Jesus is my first friend’
First, Jesus is my first friend because He is the one we should go to before going to anyone for help, counsel and comfort. A friend is someone who accepts you unconditionally, helps you grow, supports you in tough times and increases your ability to love yourself. It is also a person who has a strong liking for and trust in another. Most importantly, it must be a Godly person. Proverbs 27:9 says, “A man is blessed if he has friends who offer him godly counsel.” While Proverbs 17:17 states that “A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
• Umennadi Francis Chibunna
‘A friend is someone who is there for you, through good or difficult time’
A friend is someone who is there for you, through good or difficult time (Ruth 1), who cares about you (John 15:15). Some qualities to know or choose a friend are:
• Empathy.
• Trustworthiness.
• Honesty.
• Diplomacy.
• Good listener.
A friend can bring lots of joy, love, and peace to our life. They help through difficult times, and share in our joy and happiness (Samuel 20:17). Don’t forget that, “A friend in need is a friend indeed”.
• Chibuike Anyasor
