You know you are with true friends when they lift, encourage, correct, and then spur you on.

All of us need Aarons and Hurs in our lives. We need people who are strong when we're weak. We need people who are full of faith when we're running on empty. We need people who will fight for us on their knees. We all need a prayer circle!

The book of Proverbs warns us over and over again about negative associations. Constant exposure to wrong attitudes and wrong values will eventually take its toll in our lives. It is always easier to pull someone down than it is to lift him up. What kind of friends should you have? The kind who bring out the best in you, who lift you up, who encourage you, who make you a better person.

Talk like an ambassador (Eph 4:29-30). 1)Consider the person (only what is helpful for building others up) 2) Consider the problem (according to their needs) 3) Consider the process (that it may benefit those who listen)

We're not called to judge our spouses—ever; we are called to love them. We are not called to recount their failures in a Pharisaic game of "I'm holier than you"; we're called to encourage them. We are not called to build a case against them regarding how far they fall short of the glory of God; we are called to honor and respect them.

And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.

I don't think success is what we've made of ourselves; I think it's what we've made of others.

My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me.

Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

I take great joy and encouragement in your love, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.

It's so important for you to get around people who will stir up those seeds of greatness. Don't surround yourself with naysayers. Life is too short to hang around negative, critical, cynical, skeptical, judgmental, small-minded, jealous people. . . . Did I leave out anything?

Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him.