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We all want friends. (Even us introverts.)

Friends are often a huge source of support, love and fun in our lives.

God did something special when He made friends.

Yet, I can’t help but notice how many people are worn down or even hurt by the friends in their life.

Listen, every relationship will have its hard times. No friendship is perfect and there may be times when things get rocky.

But there is a difference between disagreements and disrespect.

There is a difference between a friend pointing out (in love) some concerns they have for you and friends who constantly criticize you.

You don’t need to keep friends in your life who intentionally make you feel bad about who you are, or who view your friendship as a burden.

Here’s my advice: keep the friends close who don’t make you question where you stand with them.

If they are upset with you (which at some point they very well may be), they’ll tell you why.

Keep the friends who don’t make you wonder, Will they talk to me today? Will they be annoyed with me today? You shouldn’t have to constantly walk on eggshells around a friend.

If they are in a bad mood, they’ll let you know and they won’t take it out on you.

Keep the friends who speak life into you instead of friends who try to one-up you or constantly compete with you.

Keep the friends who genuinely want what’s best for you, and know that you feel the same about them.

RELATED: True Friendship is a Gift

Of course we should have grace and forgiveness for our friends when they make mistakes (just like we’d want them to for us), but we don’t have to keep them close if they continue to hurt us.

If you are thinking, I don’t have friends like that, ask yourself this: are you being this type of friend to others?

If the answer is no, well great, you have something to start working on.

If the answer is yes, please know that it’s worth the effort to search for new friends.

But please, don’t keep fighting for friendships with people who don’t value you. You shouldn’t have to fight for someone to see your worth.

God doesn’t ask us to do that.

And honestly, it’s not good for you or for them.

RELATED: I Don’t Have Many Friends, But I Have True Friendship

Keep the friends who at the end of the day you know love you and are there for you.

Keep the ones who don’t make you question where you stand with them.

This post originally appeared on the author’s blog

Friendship can be tough. We love the encouragement and practical tips in Your Beautiful Heart for building healthy relationships that will truly enhance your life! Don’t have time to sit and read? You can listen here, on Audible.

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Kelli Bachara

Kelli Bachara is a wife and mom to two sweet kiddos. She is a mental health therapist, writer, and podcaster. Kelli loves her Goldendoodle, coffee, and this beautiful thing called life. You can find her at www.kellibachara.com.

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