Three tips for being a good friend in hard times:
1. Give your friend the benefit of the doubt. You don't have to understand everything, what might be dividing you might be none of your business.
2. Say an encouraging word. It's never a wrong time to say something affirming.
3. Let them off the hook. Sometimes you just need to give them a break, forgive if needed, leave the consequences to God. Don't require an answer or response.
The enemy wants nothing more to divide. If you find yourself at a crossroad with a friend, remember these times we are living in are difficult for everyone. The best thing we can do with tried and true friends is to pour a heaping helping of grace over the friendship.
I know I've made decisions in the past that my friends didn't understand but one of the greatest gifts I received were the words:
"I love you, no matter what." "I will always be here for you." "You matter to me." "You are more important than __________________ (whatever the issue was.)
Friends, relationships are important. Don't sacrifice years of support, kindness, laughter, joy, tears, stories and love, in a moment of frustration or turmoil. Hot heads, arguments and angry words don't help to make things better.
Do hard conversations happen in friendships? Certainly. But giving generous grace and understanding leaves room to navigate those waters with results that leave our relationships stronger—not divided.
I Peter 4:8-10 sums it up perfectly:
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.