No matter how you cut it, life would be
extremely difficult without friends involved in our lives. Hopefully, we all have good friends and are a friend to somebody
else. Explain to parents that this month of study focuses on friendships. This
study will help students gain a good understanding of what it takes to be a
good friend as well as what it takes to keep good friends. Students will also
learn skills that will be helpful in resolving conflicts within their
friendships.
Session 1 True Friends
— 1 Samuel 18:1-4 (6/22/16)
True friendship involves commitment to
one another. Being committed means sticking with them through both good and bad
times. Jonathan and David were deeply committed to one another. Communication
is an extremely important aspect of any friendship. A true friend loves—and is
not afraid to be loved or show love. A true friend is willing to sacrificially
give of themselves with no strings attached.
Session 2 Wise Choices
— Proverbs 22:24-25; 25:19; 1 Samuel 23:16-18 (6/29/16)
The Bible provides wisdom and guidance
in choosing friends. When it comes to choosing friends, being able to trust
them is important. We are all familiar with people whom we have found to be
unreliable. Being able to trust a friend means you know they have your back
regardless. Choosing good friends means discovering friends that will not lead
you into trouble. Listening to parents and trusting their abilities to see
things you can’t can be helpful in choosing your friends. Choosing friends who
will encourage you to be and do your best is wise.
Session 3 Bring ’em Back
— Proverbs 17:17; 27:6,17 (7/13/16)
A true friend is never
afraid to speak the truth. It may be
difficult for a friend to hear the truth, but you should still share the truth
in love. True friends hold each
other accountable. Don’t forget
that as a child of God, you are held to a higher standard. Holding each other accountable means setting
boundaries and living by them. No
matter what happens within a friendship, you keep on loving the person.
Session 4 Work It Out
— Matthew 5:23-24; 18:21-22; Acts 15:36-39 (7/20/16)
Every friendship is going to have
problems that arise. Learning to respond appropriately is the key to resolving
conflicts within friendships. When disagreements come up, learn to forgive just
as God has forgiven you. Remember that no one is perfect, not even you. Be
willing to take the first step in resolving the conflict regardless of whose
fault it may be. Resolution and restoration are possible in any situation.