Friendships are such a gift. God created us for relationships, and having good friends is part of living life to the fullest. But sometimes, friendships can get a little tricky. You might feel drained, hurt, or pulled away from the person God’s calling you to be. It’s okay to take a step back when you need to. Here are seven signs it might be time to take a little break from a friendship.
1. You Feel Drained Every Time You’re Around Them
Friendships are supposed to lift you up, not weigh you down. If spending time with a certain friend leaves you emotionally zapped, it might be time to hit pause. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, "Iron sharpens iron." If your friend isn’t helping you grow stronger, it’s worth reflecting on the relationship.
2. They Constantly Cross Boundaries
Setting boundaries is important in any healthy relationship. If your friend doesn’t respect your “no” or consistently makes you uncomfortable, that’s a big red flag. Ephesians 4:2 encourages us to "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Authentic love respects limits.
3. They Gossip About You or Others
Do you feel uneasy about what they might say behind your back? Hearing constant gossip can make even the sturdiest friendship shaky. Proverbs 16:28 says, "A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends." A little distance might be the wisest choice.
4. They Pull You Away From God
A true friend will encourage you to walk closer with the Lord. If your friend leads you toward sin or makes you feel distant from God, take note. Hebrews 10:24 says we should "spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Does this friend do that for you?
5. You Feel Unappreciated
Friendships work best when both sides give and take. If you're always the one reaching out, listening, or making plans, and it’s not mutual, it might be time to step back.
6. You Can’t Be Yourself Around Them
Do you feel like you’re constantly walking on eggshells? That’s not what a friendship is meant to feel like. God created you uniquely, and a true friend will love you at your best and worst.
7. You Feel God Nudging You To Step Away
Sometimes, the Holy Spirit might gently press on your heart to take a break from a friendship. Pray about it, and trust God’s wisdom. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."
Friends are a blessing, but sometimes it’s beneficial for everyone to take a friendship break. Take time to pray, seek wisdom, and trust God to guide your decisions.
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