One of God’s greatest gifts is friendship. These thankful for friends bible verses demonstrates how loving relationships with others offer support, responsibility, and affection. Friends celebrate with us on the tops of the mountains and walk with us through the darkest depths. They serve as a reminder that God, who longs for a relationship with His people, intended for life to be lived in community rather than in solitude.
There are numerous scriptures in the Bible that emphasize the value of genuine friendship. God shows His desire for friendship through the bond of loyalty made by Jonathan and David as well as Jesus’ designation of His disciples as “friends.” True friends encourage us to deepen our relationship with Christ, pray for us, and support us during difficult times. A physical reminder of God’s generosity and provision in our lives is provided by their presence.
There is more to being grateful for friends than just enjoying their company. It is about realizing that they are tools of God’s grace. Friends are a heavenly gift intended to help us thrive, whether they give us sage advice, console us in our grief, or uplift our faith. In addition to fortifying these ties, gratitude glorifies God, the source of all good gifts, including friendship.
We’ll look at 35 inspirational Bible passages on being grateful for friends in this post. Every verse offers insight, support, and motivation for appreciating the individuals who God has positioned in our lives. May you be filled with appreciation as you read this and be reminded of the folks who have helped you along the way.
35 Amazing Thankful For Friends Bible Verses in 2025
1. Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
True friendship is marked by consistency and loyalty. This verse reminds us that real friends remain steadfast, not only in times of joy but also in times of hardship. Friends who stand by us in trials reflect God’s enduring love. Their presence in difficult seasons is a gift worth cherishing, and our gratitude deepens when we recognize how their faithfulness mirrors God’s unwavering care.
2. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
Friendship provides strength and support. Solomon teaches us that life is easier and more fruitful when shared with others. Friends lift us when we stumble, both physically and spiritually. They provide encouragement during setbacks and celebrate with us in success. This verse emphasizes the mutual blessing of companionship, reminding us to be thankful for those who hold us up in life’s journey.
3. John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
Jesus defines the ultimate act of friendship as sacrificial love. True friends are willing to give of themselves for the good of others, reflecting Christ’s selflessness. Gratitude for such love should inspire us to value our friends deeply. This verse not only points us to Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross but also challenges us to embody selfless love in our friendships.
4. Job 6:14
“Anyone who withholds kindness from a friend forsakes the fear of the Almighty.”
This verse emphasizes kindness as a vital part of friendship. Friends are called to extend compassion, understanding, and patience toward one another. When we withhold kindness, we fail to reflect God’s character. Thankfulness for friends includes appreciating their kindness in our lives and striving to show the same grace in return. Friendships rooted in kindness bring joy, peace, and mutual growth in faith.
5. Proverbs 27:9
“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”
A true friend brings joy not only through companionship but also through wise and heartfelt counsel. This verse highlights how good advice refreshes and uplifts the spirit, much like sweet fragrances. Friends who share godly wisdom are invaluable, helping us navigate life’s challenges with clarity and faith. Being thankful for friends means appreciating their honesty, guidance, and the spiritual encouragement they provide in love.
6. Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Friendship plays a vital role in personal growth. Just as iron sharpens iron, friends refine one another through encouragement, correction, and accountability. Good friends challenge us to grow spiritually, emotionally, and even in wisdom. Gratitude for friends deepens when we realize how much they shape us for the better. This verse reminds us that friendship is not passive—it is a refining gift from God that sharpens our faith.
7. Ruth 1:16
“Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.”
Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi illustrates the depth of love in true friendship. Despite uncertainty, Ruth committed herself to walk faithfully beside Naomi. This verse demonstrates selfless devotion and steadfast love. We can be thankful for friends who remain loyal, no matter the season of life. Their presence reminds us of God’s covenant faithfulness and encourages us to cultivate such enduring commitment in our own friendships.
8. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Encouragement is one of the greatest gifts friends can give. Paul urges believers to strengthen one another through words and actions that build faith and courage. Friends who uplift us in times of struggle are a divine blessing. Being thankful for friends means recognizing their role in keeping us strong in our walk with Christ. They help us persevere when life becomes difficult by pointing us back to God’s promises.
9. Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Forgiveness is essential in maintaining healthy friendships. No friendship is perfect, and conflicts will arise. This verse reminds us to extend grace and forgiveness to friends, just as God has forgiven us. Thankfulness for friends grows when we recognize their willingness to forgive and move forward in love. Friendships built on grace become stronger and more enduring, reflecting the mercy and compassion of Christ.
10. Proverbs 18:24
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
This verse highlights the difference between shallow friendships and true, lasting ones. While unreliable friends may disappoint, genuine friends remain steadfast and supportive, even closer than family. We can be deeply thankful for such friends, knowing their loyalty is a rare and priceless gift. This truth also points to Jesus, our truest Friend, who never leaves us nor forsakes us, sticking closer than anyone else ever could.
11. Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.”
Friendships rooted in Christ inspire us to grow in faith and service. The writer of Hebrews reminds us that gathering together strengthens our walk with God. Friends who encourage us to live out love and good works are blessings to be grateful for. Their presence keeps us accountable and motivated, ensuring we do not walk alone. Thankfulness deepens when we value these friendships as part of God’s design for community.
12. Philippians 1:3
“I thank my God every time I remember you.”
Paul’s words to the Philippians express deep gratitude for their friendship and partnership in the gospel. This verse beautifully captures the joy of remembering cherished friends. When we reflect on those who have supported, encouraged, and walked alongside us, gratitude naturally overflows. True friendship is a gift from God that deserves constant thanksgiving in prayer. This reminder encourages us to thank God for the people who enrich our lives daily.
13. Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Friendship requires devotion and humility. Paul instructs believers to honor one another, placing others’ needs before their own. Such selfless love strengthens relationships and builds lasting bonds. True friends demonstrate this devotion by consistently supporting and valuing one another. Being thankful for friends means appreciating their sacrificial love and striving to reciprocate it. This verse challenges us to build friendships marked by mutual respect, honor, and unwavering love.
14. James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”
Friendships that include prayer and accountability bring healing and spiritual growth. James encourages believers to be honest and vulnerable with trusted friends, creating space for prayer and restoration. We can be thankful for friends who pray for us and stand with us in our weaknesses. Their prayers remind us that God uses relationships to bring strength and healing. Such friendships are a source of profound gratitude and encouragement.
15. 1 Samuel 18:3
“And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.”
Jonathan and David’s friendship is one of the most beautiful examples of loyalty in Scripture. Their bond was rooted in selfless love and commitment. This covenant illustrates the depth of genuine friendship, where love mirrors the command to “love your neighbor as yourself.” We can be thankful for friends who remain faithful and devoted, standing with us even in difficult circumstances. Their love reflects God’s own covenant faithfulness.
16. Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
True friends are those who help us carry life’s burdens. Paul teaches that sharing in one another’s struggles is part of living out Christ’s love. We can be thankful for friends who step in during our hardest times, providing strength, comfort, and encouragement. Their willingness to walk alongside us mirrors Jesus’ compassion. This verse reminds us that friendship is not only about joy but also about shared responsibility in love.
17. Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly… teaching and admonishing one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.”
Friendship in Christ is centered on God’s Word. Paul highlights the blessing of friends who encourage us with Scripture, worship, and wisdom. Such friendships keep us grounded in truth and build us up spiritually. We should be deeply thankful for friends who remind us of God’s promises and point us toward Him. Their encouragement through godly wisdom strengthens our faith and enriches our walk with the Lord.
18. 1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
This verse highlights the influence of friendships. The people we surround ourselves with can either strengthen or weaken our character. Being thankful for godly friends means recognizing their role in helping us pursue righteousness and avoid harmful paths. Their presence is a safeguard against temptation and compromise. This verse encourages us to cherish friendships that promote holiness and to value the positive spiritual influence true friends bring.
19. Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person… or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
The Bible warns us about unhealthy friendships. Anger and destructive behavior can easily influence those around us. Thankfulness for friends means appreciating those who bring peace, wisdom, and godly influence into our lives. By surrounding ourselves with friends who reflect Christ’s character, we avoid being ensnared by harmful patterns. This verse calls us to gratitude for the friends who inspire patience, kindness, and righteousness in our daily walk.
20. Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
This well-known teaching of Jesus applies powerfully to friendships. The golden rule emphasizes treating friends with the same love, respect, and kindness we desire. Gratitude for friends motivates us to love them well, creating relationships that reflect Christ’s heart. Thankful friendships are built on mutual care and consideration, strengthening bonds that honor God. This verse encourages us to be intentional in showing appreciation through actions of love and respect.
21. Amos 3:3
“Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?”
This verse underscores the importance of unity in friendship. Walking together requires shared values, trust, and agreement. True friends align their lives in ways that foster peace and mutual support. We can be thankful for friends who walk in step with us, sharing both our burdens and joys. Their companionship reflects God’s design for harmony in relationships and strengthens our journey of faith through mutual agreement and trust.
22. 2 Timothy 1:4
“Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.”
Paul’s longing to see Timothy reveals the deep affection and joy true friendship brings. Friends are a source of comfort and gladness, especially when distance or hardship separates us. Gratitude grows when we reflect on how much joy our friends bring into our lives. This verse reminds us to cherish those relationships and to thank God for the blessing of friends who fill our hearts with lasting joy.
23. 1 Peter 4:8-9
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.”
Friendship thrives on deep love and hospitality. Peter calls believers to show love that forgives and welcomes. Friends who extend grace and open their hearts to us embody this truth. Being thankful for such friendships reminds us of God’s generous love and mercy. Their forgiveness and hospitality enrich our lives, creating a safe space where we can grow and flourish together in Christ-centered relationships filled with kindness.
24. Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
The company we keep influences our growth and direction. Walking with wise friends leads to greater wisdom and blessing, while foolish friendships bring harm. This verse encourages us to be thankful for wise and godly friends who help us grow spiritually and practically. Their influence guides us toward better choices and strengthens our character. Gratitude flows when we realize how much godly friendships enrich our journey with wisdom.
25. Romans 1:12
“That is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.”
Paul reminds us of the beauty of friendships built on shared faith. Mutual encouragement is one of the richest blessings friends can offer. Through prayers, testimonies, and support, friends inspire one another to remain steadfast in Christ. Thankfulness for friends increases when we recognize how much their faith strengthens ours. This verse celebrates the joy of walking with those who build us up spiritually in both love and faith.
26. Proverbs 27:5-6
“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
True friends are honest, even when it is difficult. Their correction, though sometimes painful, is meant for our good. This verse highlights the value of friends who love us enough to speak truth rather than flatter us with empty words. We can be thankful for such friends, knowing their honesty comes from genuine care. Their guidance refines us, strengthens our walk, and protects us from destructive choices.
27. 1 John 4:11
“Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”
Friendship is rooted in God’s love. John reminds us that our friendships should reflect the sacrificial love God has shown us. When friends extend this kind of love, they mirror the heart of Christ in our lives. Gratitude for friends grows as we see their actions inspired by God’s love. This verse encourages us to love our friends selflessly, building bonds that glorify God and nurture lasting joy.
28. Philippians 2:4
“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Friendship flourishes when selflessness is at its core. Paul encourages believers to prioritize others’ needs above their own. Friends who practice selflessness enrich our lives, providing support and encouragement without expecting anything in return. Being thankful for friends means appreciating their sacrificial spirit and striving to do the same for them. This verse reminds us that Christlike friendships are built on humility, service, and genuine care.
29. 1 Corinthians 1:10
“I appeal to you… that all of you agree with one another… so that there may be no divisions among you but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.”
Unity is a hallmark of godly friendships. Paul calls for believers to live in harmony, free from unnecessary conflict or division. True friends work toward peace and unity, creating bonds that reflect the love of Christ. We can be thankful for friends who pursue unity and avoid strife. Their presence brings stability, peace, and joy to our lives, making friendship a true blessing worth cherishing with gratitude.
30. Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Jesus assures us that His presence dwells among friends united in His name. Friendships centered on Christ are powerful because they invite God’s presence and blessing. We can be deeply thankful for friends who gather with us in prayer, worship, and fellowship. These relationships not only strengthen us but also draw us closer to Christ. This verse reminds us that friendships rooted in Him are filled with divine purpose.
31. 2 Samuel 10:2
“David thought, ‘I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, just as his father showed kindness to me.’”
David’s decision to show kindness reflects the gratitude and honor we should extend in friendships. True friends inspire us to continue cycles of kindness and compassion. This verse reminds us to appreciate friends not only for their direct love but also for the way their goodness teaches us to love others. Thankfulness for friends includes recognizing how their actions shape us into more gracious and caring people.
32. 1 Thessalonians 3:9
“How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?”
Paul’s gratitude overflows as he thanks God for the joy his friends bring. This verse beautifully shows how friendships are spiritual blessings that fill our hearts with gladness. True friends draw us closer to God, and for that, we should give thanks continually. Gratitude for friends is not just personal but also worshipful, as we recognize them as gifts from God meant to enrich our lives.
33. Micah 7:5
“Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend. Even with the woman who lies in your embrace guard the words of your lips.”
This verse cautions against misplaced trust in friends, reminding us that human relationships can sometimes falter. While friendships are blessings, our ultimate trust should remain in God. Being thankful for friends includes appreciating them without idolizing them, understanding they are still human and imperfect. This perspective keeps us balanced, valuing friends as gifts while grounding our deepest confidence in the Lord, who never fails us.
34. Zechariah 8:16
“These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts.”
Friendship requires truth and integrity. God calls His people to relationships rooted in honesty and fairness. Friends who speak truth in love and act with integrity are worthy of deep gratitude. Their honesty provides safety and builds lasting trust. This verse encourages us to be thankful for the friends who choose truth over flattery, guiding us in righteousness and keeping our relationships strong and God-centered.
35. 2 Corinthians 13:11
“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.”
Paul’s closing words highlight the essence of godly friendship: restoration, encouragement, unity, and peace. Friends who embody these qualities enrich our lives and bring God’s peace into our relationships. We should be deeply thankful for friends who help us pursue reconciliation and harmony. This verse assures us that when our friendships reflect God’s love, His presence is near. Such relationships are a beautiful gift to be cherished.
Conclusion
Friendship is one of life’s richest treasures, and Scripture affirms this truth repeatedly. The verses we have explored highlight loyalty, encouragement, kindness, and sacrificial love—qualities that make friendships both meaningful and enduring. Being thankful for friends is more than appreciating companionship; it is recognizing that these relationships are divine gifts that mirror God’s love and care. Each friend who strengthens, comforts, and uplifts us is a reminder of God’s faithfulness.
As we reflect on these 35 verses, we see that true friendship is not just about shared laughter or common interests but about spiritual encouragement, forgiveness, and love rooted in Christ. Godly friends sharpen us, pray for us, walk with us in hardship, and rejoice with us in victory. They are instruments of grace that help us persevere in our faith. Expressing gratitude for them honors both the friendships and the God who has provided them.
Ultimately, friendships are meant to point us back to God. Jesus Himself called His disciples “friends,” showing us that the greatest friendship is found in Him. By giving thanks for our earthly friends, we also acknowledge the deeper reality of our friendship with Christ, who demonstrates perfect love. May we treasure our friends, nurture these bonds with gratitude, and continually thank God for the people who walk beside us on life’s journey.
