We have been talking about the virtues and qualities that build our character—the traits we hope our family and friends will remember about us when it comes time for our eulogy. But all of these virtues and character traits will be worthless and hollow if they are not based on a relationship with Jesus.

Friendships of convenience fall into two different categories. They are either friendships of utility or friendships of pleasure: pleasant friendships or useful friendships.

Useful friendships rely on each person being able to help the other.

Pleasant friendships are based on having fun together.

These friendships last as long as both people are able to give each other what they want,

A few attitudes, like possessiveness, dissolve these friendships even more quickly. Possessiveness is the attitude that says, “You exist for me, and as long as you are giving me what I want, as long as I can possess you, then things are great. But if I can’t possess you anymore, if you’re not giving me what I want, then I need to get out. I need to... See more

Competition is another jeopardizing factor.

Another thing that can kill pleasant or useful friendships is the truth.

Are we stuck with friendships that are merely useful or pleasant? There is a better way, and it rests on love.