Let’s be real – making new friends can be tough. If you’re frustrated about how hard it is to connect with new people, this episode is for you. We dive into the common ways you might be self-sabotaging and offer practical solutions to help you build genuine friendships. This episode is for you if: • You’re annoyed by how difficult it is to make new friends. • You leave parties, work gatherings, or church feeling like you didn’t get to know anyone new. • You’re struggling to connect and suspect you might be getting in your own way. Four Things Stopping You from Making New Friends: 1. Being on Your Phone: • Even if it’s not intended, being on your phone or having headphones in tells people, “I’m not open to interaction.” • Sherry Turkle, in Reclaiming Conversation, notes that even a silent phone on the table can disconnect us and lower empathy levels. 2. Believing No One’s Interested in You: • If you see yourself as unlikeable, you subconsciously communicate that to others. • The Liking Gap shows we often underestimate how much others like us. 3. Having Too Narrow of a Routine or Too Full of a Schedule: • Doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results is insanity. • If your current routine hasn’t led to fulfilling friendships, it’s time to change it up. 4. Not Following Up on Enjoyable Interactions: • Friendships take initiative. If you’re not following up, you’re choosing not to make friends. • A passing interaction isn’t enough; real connection happens with follow-up. Practical Solutions: • Put Down Your Phone: Look around and be open to interaction. • Challenge Negative Beliefs: Feed yourself God’s truth and seek counseling if needed. • Change Your Routine: Arrive early, stay late, join new activities. • Follow Up: If you enjoyed a conversation, tell the person and ask to continue it. No more excuses. Start making time for the people who matter. Tune in for real talk and practical advice to make your friendships thrive. Like, share, and subscribe for more!

Let’s be real – sometimes we don’t hang out because we’re not prioritizing our friendships. In this episode, we get honest about why it’s so hard to connect with friends and what we can do to change that. What We Cover: • The Struggle is Real: Ever had to plan a month in advance just to meet a friend? Yeah, we’ve been there. • Scripture That Hits Home: Hebrews 10:23-25 reminds us that meeting up and encouraging each other is essential. • Practical Tips to Change Your Life: 1. Schedule It: Make a regular hangout time and stick to it. 2. Do Life Together: Run errands, work out, or do chores with your friends. 3. Ask for Help: Need a hand? Use it as a chance to bond. What to Do When You’re Together: 1. Focus on Jesus: Pray, talk about faith, and support each other spiritually. 2. Go Deep: Have real, heart-level conversations. 3. Have Fun: Find joy in shared activities. No more excuses.

• The Importance of Prayer: Recognizing our dependence on God and the essential role of intercession in our spiritual lives. • Quote from Andrew Murray: “True love to souls will become in us the spirit of intercession….True love must pray.” • Scriptural and Scientific Foundations: Why Scripture prioritizes praying for others. • Key Verses: James 5:16, 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Ephesians 6:18, Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25, 1 John 2:1. • When to Pray for Your Friends: • Sporadically as they come to mind. • Setting aside specific times. • Praying with your friends directly. • How to Pray for Your Friends: Simple, heartfelt prayers and practical tips like keeping a prayer journal, using reminder apps, and informing your friends that you are praying for them. • What to Pray for Your Friends: • Giving thanks for them (Ephesians 1:16, Philippians 1:3). • Praying for their growth in God’s love (Ephesians 1:18, Philippians 1:8-10). • Asking for endurance in hard times (Philippians 4:6). • Requesting God’s provision (James 5:16, 2 Corinthians 13:9). • Praying for their witness to Jesus (2 Thessalonians 1:12). • Addressing their stated needs and letting the Spirit guide your prayers. • Final Encouragement: Start small and start now. Think of two friends you can pray for immediately after finishing this episode. Tune in to discover how we can transform our prayer lives, deepen our friendships, and engage in meaningful intercession, following Jesus’ example.

Tired of the fake stuff? So are we. In this raw and real episode, we talk about how pretending might feel safe, but it’s not where God wants us. We share our own struggles and how Christ calls us out of the comfort of pretending and into the freedom of being real. No more masks, no more playing it safe. We’re not slaves to sin or our old ways. We’re new creations in Christ. Tune in as we unpack what it means to drop the act and live authentically.

Conflict is inevitable in any real relationship. Don’t buy into the "fool's choice" of believing you have to decide between being on and staying friends. In this episode we cover how to know when you need to have a hard conversation with your friend and four essentials for doing that conversation well even if there is conflict.

Odds are you’re believing lies about friendship as an adult, and that those lies are hurting your ability to make, keep, and go deep with your friends. Making friends as an adult isn’t easy, and it’s made harder by the fact that we often buy into these four lies: Friendships magically appear: the truth is we need to be intentional about making friends, putting in effort to initiate and build relationships.Effortless friendships are best: The truth is that strong friendships involve mutual investment, where both people contribute.Conflict ruins friendships: the truth is that healthy disagreements can actually strengthen friendships if we navigate them constructively.Friendships last forever: in reality, most friendships are temporary, serving a purpose in a specific life stage. Don’t fall for these limiting beliefs. Instead, embrace God's perspective on friendship through prayer, studying the Bible, connecting with a faith community, and taking the initiative to build new friendships. Links to the articles we mentioned: https://time.com/5159867/adult-friendships-loneliness/https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2022/01/how-to-make-new-friends-midlife/621231/&ved=2ahUKEwi6uvKMz9aGAxVt3ckDHW58CoUQFnoECBMQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1ZCILhGA-J2Ind-pV_HPf3https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2019/11/why-dont-i-see-you-anymore/598336/https://www.self.com/story/men-friendship-advicehttps://www.businessinsider.com/death-casual-fringe-friendships-gen-z-sad-jobs-alone-2024-2https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/jul/18/loneliness-coping-with-the-gap-where-friends-used-to-be

When our friends are hurting we often respond in unhelpful ways, like simply saying "everything happens for a reason" or offering unsolicited advice. Want to know a better way to support friends who are going through difficult times? In this episode we outline how to NOT respond your friend’s suffering and offer a simple guide for a better way. Show Up: Be present for your friend. Don't abandon them in their pain.Shut Up: Listen attentively. Don't try to fix their situation or tell them your own story. Look at the story of Jesus and Lazarus' death as an example: Jesus didn't try to minimize Lazarus' death or offer empty platitudes. He wept with them, showing compassion and sharing their grief.

This episode challenges the common ways we identify true friends. While having things in common and enjoying each other’s company are positive aspects of friendship and often our default way to assess whether someone is a real friend, the Bible offers a deeper perspective. True friends have a “shared heart;” a deep connection based on faith and mutual respect. They can be different from you, but they challenge you to grow and forgive your mistakes. Loyal friends are there through thick and thin, and they even pray for you. Ultimately, their highest commitment is to God, which strengthens their ability to love you. Use the Bible, not cultural standards, to evaluate their friendships.

In our last episode, we delved into the thorny subject of gossip. As we continue the discussion today, we'll be providing strategies to help you navigate through the gossip-laden world we live in. Just for a quick recap, we previously discussed how gossip, from a biblical perspective, is inherently damaging. It involves the unauthorized sharing of information that can tarnish someone's reputation. As Christians, we're called to spread good news and uplift others with our speech (Ephesians 4:29). Key Discussion Points 1. Handling Gossiping Friends - Mike's story: A case of disarming gossip through humble confession - Exiting the conversation: Why it can sometimes be the best action - The Christian approach: Having candid discussions about the harmful effects of gossip 2. Dealing with Workplace Gossip - Non-participation: Why it’s important to refrain from contributing to gossip - Direct communication: Encouraging gossipers to address their concerns with the person involved 3. Overcoming Personal Gossip Habits - Self-reflection: Understanding the root cause of the desire to gossip (Matthew 12:34-37) - Motive identification: Recognizing underlying incentives such as the need for acceptance or a desire to harm others 4. Combatting Gossip Targeted at You - Finding inspiration: Drawing strength from Psalm 55 and Jesus' experiences of betrayal - Self-evaluation: Checking for any truth in the gossip and having honest conversations with the source(s) While we can't control others' words, we hold complete control over ours. As stated by James, gaining mastery over our tongue leads to mastery over our entire selves. We encourage you to be intentional with your words, using them to uplift and encourage those around us.

The Bible takes a strong stance against gossip, seeing it as a harmful behavior with far-reaching consequences. Why? Because words have power according to the Bible, and gossip wields that power for destruction rather than for good. The original languages of the Bible use terms to describe gossips, terms like "talebearer" and "slanderer." These terms highlight the malicious intent behind gossip. It's not just sharing information; it's spreading negativity and rumors, often with the goal of damaging someone's reputation. Even seemingly harmless words can fall under the umbrella of gossip from a Christian perspective. Jesus, in Matthew 12, warns against careless and idle words, indicating that gossip isn't limited to just malicious intent. Careless words can still cause harm and spread negativity. God offers us alternative way of using our words: to build others up and spread grace. This doesn't necessarily mean suppressing your emotions entirely. Ephesians 4:29 emphasizes this concept, urging us to speak in a way that offers encouragement and grace to both the listener and the person being spoken about. Does your speech build others up in grace?

In today's culture, the idea of cutting off "toxic" people is prevalent, especially in the realm of social media and heated political discourse. But is this approach biblical? Join us as we delve into the scriptural perspective on ending friendships, examining passages from 1 Corinthians and the teachings of Jesus. We define what constitutes a toxic relationship according to biblical principles, offering insights beyond mere personal discomfort. Through real-life examples and practical advice, learn how to identify and address toxic friendships with grace and discernment. Discover the biblical process of confrontation and the importance of setting boundaries, all while honoring the principles of love and forgiveness. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on navigating relationships through a biblical lens.

In Ephesians 4:25-32, we're reminded to speak truthfully, manage our anger with grace, and choose our words carefully, always aiming to uplift others. Forgiveness is the heart of these discussions, a beacon guiding us through the storm of hard conversations. So, what does it truly mean to live out these principles in our friendships? How do we balance honesty with compassion? These are the questions we'll unpack together. Now, for some practical guidance: Start with clarity. Know your goal in the conversation to stay on track.When you initiate talks, focus on expressing your feelings rather than pointing fingers.Seek to understand before seeking to be understood. Ask questions and listen deeply.Above all, suspend judgment and approach each other with empathy and goodwill. Picture this: a circle of friends where honesty reigns, where understanding flows, and where love abounds despite imperfections. Isn't that the kind of community we all crave? You can take the first step by inviting your friends into these meaningful exchanges. Ask them sincerely how you can grow as a friend, and listen to their responses with an open heart.

Keeping it Real: Let's chat about the struggles we've faced trying to balance friendships with major life changes like getting engaged or hitched. Friendship Woes: Why do some friends seem to vanish once they find love? Is it cool or kinda crappy? Voices from Different Walks: For the Engaged: Belle spills the beans on what us engaged folks want our single pals to know and how they can be there for us. For the Singles: Lucas shares his take on what he hopes his taken buddies will do to keep the friendship train chugging. For the Married Crew: Ben drops gems on what married-with-kids peeps like him wish their single or parent pals understood. Offering to babysit? Playing with the little ones? Hanging out even when it's just Netflix and chill? We cover it all. Let's get real about how life stages affect our hangouts and why radio silence isn't personal. Oh, and shoutout to the effort it takes to leave the house once you've got a fam—it means a ton when we do manage to catch up. Staying Tight: Get some down-to-earth tips on how to keep your friendships thriving, no matter where life takes you.

The Issue at Hand The Problem: A dearth of genuine conversation, particularly the kind that resonates deeply within us.Opening Inquiry: Reflecting on the last truly profound conversation you shared with a friend, what elements made it particularly meaningful? Quote to Ponder: Sherry Turkle's research underscores how the digital age has eroded empathy, with a 40% decline observed among college students, largely attributed to increased digital communication. Scriptural Foundations: Proverbs 27:9 speaks to the uplifting power of sincere counsel from a friend.Proverbs 20:5 emphasizes the importance of understanding and drawing out the depths of one another's hearts. Insight from Turkle: Solitude fosters self-discovery, enabling us to engage authentically in conversation and deepen our capacity for empathy. However, technology disrupts this virtuous cycle, impeding both solitude and genuine connection. Identifying Barriers: Lack of Focus: Distractions hinder meaningful engagement; prioritizing presence is essential.Lack of Knowledge: Many struggle to navigate deeper conversations; cultivating the skill is vital.Lack of Time: Busy schedules impede our ability to slow down and connect authentically. Proposing Solutions: Schedule Intentionally: Allocate dedicated time for meaningful conversations, signaling value and commitment to friends.Pose Thoughtful Questions: Prompting deeper reflection with questions about the past, present, future, and expressions of gratitude.Eliminate Distractions: Create environments conducive to focused dialogue, free from technological interruptions.Practice Active Listening: Cultivate the art of deep listening, fostering understanding and empathy. Establishing Ground: Insights from Scripture and ScienceEngage in Dialogue: Identifying Barriers and Solutions

Can boys and girls be friends? The Bible says yes, but it's important to be wise about how we navigate these friendships due to the influence of sin. Biblical friendships between men and women should be based on treating each other like family members in Christ. This means having a brotherly/sisterly kind of love, not a romantic one. The Bible uses examples like Timothy, who was instructed to treat younger women as sisters, to show that this kind of friendship is possible. Jesus himself also interacted with women in a friendly way, even those with troubled pasts. However, same-sex friendships are important too. If you can't have healthy friendships with people of your own gender, it will likely be difficult to have healthy friendships with the opposite. Four tips for building healthy friendships with those of the opposite sex: Make sure your friendships with your own sex are strong first.Be clear about your expectations in the friendship.Live out your friendship primarily in the context of a larger community rather than one-on-oneTrust God's guidance instead of relying on strict rules.

The Bible doesn't give a simple yes or no answer on whether Christians can be friends with non-Christians. Some Christians (isolationists) believe they shouldn't because of the risk of being influenced negatively.Others (integrationists) believe Christians must be friends with everyone to spread Jesus' love. The Bible suggests a more nuanced approach: It's good to have friendships with non-Christians. This allows you to show them God's love through your actions.However, your closest friends (those who influence you most) should ideally share your faith. This creates a strong support system for your Christian walk.The Bible warns against associating with those who will lead you into sin. Jesus himself befriended sinners. The goal of every friendship, whether with Christians or non-Christians, is to be driven by a heart of love - love for God, and love for those who God has placed into our path.

Hey there, friends! Today, we're diving deep into a topic that's close to our hearts: friendship. But not just any kind of friendship—we're talking about the real, authentic connections that make life meaningful. And where better to look for guidance on friendship than in the pages of Scripture? Now, before we get started, let's set the record straight. We're not experts in ancient languages or theology buffs. We're just two regular guys on a journey of faith, trying to figure out what it means to pursue real friendship in a world that often feels disconnected. So, what does the Bible have to say about friendship? Well, turns out, quite a lot! From Hebrew words like chabar and rea to Greek concepts like philos and philoi, the Bible is full of rich insights into the beauty and complexity of human relationships. But let's get real for a moment. How often do we prioritize depth over quantity when it comes to friendships? In a world where social media likes and followers reign supreme, it's easy to get caught up in surface-level connections. But true friendship—the kind that stands the test of time and weather life's storms—requires more than just a casual acquaintance. That's where biblical wisdom comes in. Through stories like that of Jesus and his disciples, we see the power of deep, loyal friendships that transcend mere association. We're reminded that friendship isn't just about having someone to hang out with—it's about sharing life's joys and struggles, supporting each other through thick and thin, and ultimately pointing each other towards the heart of God. So, as we journey through this episode, let's challenge ourselves to reevaluate our views on friendship. Let's dare to cultivate relationships that go beyond the surface, that are built on trust, loyalty, and genuine affection. And most importantly, let's not forget to include God in the picture. Because true friendship with others begins with a friendship with the One who knows us best and loves us most. Join us as we explore what it means to pursue real friendship, grounded in the timeless truths of Scripture. It's not always easy, but we believe it's worth it. Let's dive in together and discover the beauty of authentic connections that truly speak to the heart. 🎙️ Listen now and let's journey towards deeper, more meaningful friendships together. #HeartfeltFriendship #BiblicalWisdom #RealConnections 🎙️

🎧 Ben's Authentic Take: Faith & Friendship Unfiltered 🎧 Hey, what's up, everyone? Ben's keeping it real about his faith journey and why friendship is the real deal. Tune in for a candid convo where Ben talks about how Jesus rocked his world, what Jesus is up to in his life now, and why friendship isn't just a nice-to-have—it's essential. 🙏 Ben's Jesus Moment: Ben shares the raw truth about that life-changing encounter. 🌿 Chillin' with Jesus: Get the scoop on how Jesus is making moves in Ben's everyday life. 🤝 Why Friendship Matters: Ben breaks it down—why friendship is crucial for keeping it together. 🔔 Hit follow for more real talk that hits close to home!

Here's what's on the agenda: 👋 Setting the Scene: We're sharing our own awkward encounters and getting real about the struggle of starting conversations, especially when you're new to the scene. 🔍 Breaking Down Barriers: Let's talk about what really stops us from hitting up that chat with a stranger. From fear to feeling drained, we're calling it like it is. 🛠️ Practical Steps: But enough talk - let's get down to business. We've got some practical tips to help you break the ice and keep the conversation flowing naturally. 🔔 Don't forget to hit follow

🎧 Navigating the End of a Friendship: Understanding, Healing, and Moving Forward 🎧 Hey listeners, Friendship struggles? Yeah, they're real. In this podcast episode, we're diving deep into the messy world of friendship endings. Join us for candid conversations, real-life stories, and practical advice on how to navigate the ups and downs of friendship breakups. Here's what we're covering: 👯‍♂️ Real Talk: Sharing our own experiences and getting honest about why friendships sometimes fall apart. 📜 Behind the Scenes: Exploring the reasons behind friendship breakups, from misunderstandings to growing apart. 🛠️ Tools for Healing: Offering practical tips and strategies to help you heal, grow, and move forward. 🔊 Don't forget to follow our podcast on Spotify or Apple podcast and share your own experiences in the comments. We're here to support you every step of the way. #FriendshipStruggles #RealTalkPodcast #HealingJourney #SpotifyPodcasts #CommunitySupport