Watchtower Study for the Week of January 25-31, 2027

How to Cultivate Good Friendships

1, 2. What do many find difficult?

Answer 1: Many find it difficult to make true friends and preserve those friendships. That can happen to us within the congregation too. The paragraph reminds us that having good friends means much more than knowing people: It means having their love and support both when things are going well and when difficulties arise. Recognizing that we need this kind of friendship can motivate us to devote time and effort to cultivating it.

Psalms 119:63 — I am a friend of all who fear you And of those who keep your orders.

Answer 2: This psalm highlights a very important basis for choosing friends: They love Jehovah and want to obey him. Although at times we may find it difficult to establish a deep friendship, in the congregation we can find people who have that same attitude. Their companionship will not only make us feel loved but will also help us remain spiritually and emotionally strong. So it is worth getting to know our brothers better.

Answer 3: We may find it difficult to maintain a friendship, not just to start one. The article points out that true friends support one another in good times and bad. This helps us view friendship as a relationship that needs continual attention, not as something that maintains itself. Instead of merely wishing that someone would accompany us, we can ask ourselves how we are accompanying our friends.

Answer 4: A beautiful thought in the paragraph is that friendship makes us happy not only because of what we receive but also because of what we give. Although making friends may be difficult for us, showing love and supporting others brings us joy. So we can change our focus: In addition to thinking about how much we need a good friend, let us think about how good we can make a brother feel if we behave as true friends.

3. If we want to make good friends, what attitude must we avoid, and what must we do?

Answer 1: We must avoid focusing too much on ourselves. If we always give priority to our tastes, problems, or desires, it will be difficult for others to feel comfortable around us. To make good friendships, we need to show sincere interest in the welfare of our brothers. This means that our attention should not be focused only on what a friendship can do for us but also on how we can benefit the other person.

Philippians 2:3-4 — Do nothing out of contentiousness or out of egotism, but with humility consider others superior to you, as you look out not only for your own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Answer 2: Paul helps us find the balance. It is not a matter of ignoring our needs but of also keeping the needs of others in mind. Humility enables us to recognize that their interests deserve attention. When we apply this counsel, we stop making everything revolve around us and show the sincere interest that makes friendship possible.

Answer 3: The selfish attitude is widespread in the world, but we do not want to allow it to influence our friendships. The paragraph invites us to examine our own attitude instead of thinking only about what others should do for us. A useful question would be: Am I genuinely interested in how my brothers are doing? That interest must be sincere, because we are not simply trying to gain companionship; we want to contribute to their welfare.

Answer 4: We need to learn to show interest in others. The word learn is encouraging because it indicates that we can improve even if it is currently difficult for us to get beyond our own concerns. In a conversation, for example, we can give a brother room to tell us how he feels and listen to his response. In this way, we put the paragraph’s thought into practice: We stop concentrating exclusively on ourselves and show that the other person’s welfare matters to us too.

4. Why should we not isolate ourselves? (2 John 12; see also the pictures.)

Answer 1: We should not isolate ourselves because spending too much time alone can weaken us emotionally and spiritually. In addition, we may begin to feel uncomfortable or anxious around other people, making it even more difficult to relate to them. The paragraph does not say that we should never be alone, but that we should watch habits that gradually draw us away from others. Looking for opportunities to converse in person helps us avoid becoming isolated.

Hebrews 10:24-25 — And let us consider one another so as to incite to love and fine works, not forsaking our meeting together, as some have the custom, but encouraging one another, and all the more so as you see the day drawing near.

Answer 2: These verses show that we need contact with our brothers in order to encourage one another. When we associate with them, we can perceive their needs and stimulate one another to do what pleases Jehovah. Therefore, avoiding isolation benefits more than just us. It also allows our presence and interest to be a source of encouragement to others.

Answer 3: The pictures show that we can isolate ourselves even when surrounded by people. In one picture, the sister is focused on her phone during a social gathering; in the other, she is talking with her friends. The contrast invites us to examine how we use our phones. It is not enough to be physically present: To cultivate friendships, we need to pay attention to those near us and take advantage of opportunities to associate with them.

Answer 4: Having many contacts on social media does not necessarily mean having deep friendships. The paragraph encourages us not to allow the time we spend online to replace personal association. It is true that spending some time alone can be good for us, but we need balance. We can ask ourselves whether our habits draw us closer to our brothers or whether, little by little, they are leaving us with fewer opportunities to spend time with them.

5. Why is it important to express our feelings?

Answer 1: This is important because Jehovah created us with the need to express what we feel. If we never share our thoughts and emotions, it will be difficult for anyone to get to know us well and for a deep friendship to develop. On the other hand, when we talk with a friend about what is inside us, we show that we trust him. He may greatly value that trust, and our relationship may grow stronger as we get to know each other better.

John 11:35 — Jesus gave way to tears.

Answer 2: Jesus did not always hide his emotions from his disciples. This detail teaches us that expressing sadness is not incompatible with having strong faith. His example can help us if we find it difficult to let a friend know how we feel. We do not need to pretend that nothing affects us. Sharing our feelings with someone we trust can draw us closer to him and give him the opportunity to show us affection.

Answer 3: Expressing our feelings does not mean telling everything to everyone. The paragraph clarifies that the Bible also teaches us to be prudent and to recognize when it is appropriate to speak or remain silent. So we need balance: We should neither carelessly reveal everything we think nor completely close our heart. We can share what concerns us with a trusted friend without feeling that we are therefore obligated to tell him every detail of our life.

Answer 4: Isolation does not always mean being physically alone. We could also associate with others and yet not allow anyone to know our feelings. The paragraph helps us see that emotional closeness requires more than talking about general matters. When we open up to a friend, we show that we trust him. That trust can make our relationship closer and help both of us feel more united.

6. What can we do if we are shy? (See also the box “How to Cope With Shyness.”)

Answer 1: If we are shy, we can ask Jehovah for help and then act in harmony with our prayers. We do not need to begin with something complicated. The paragraph suggests smiling and greeting someone at the Kingdom Hall whom we do not know very well. That small step allows us to show love even though we may still feel nervous. The important thing is not to let shyness completely prevent us from drawing close to our brothers.

Philippians 2:13 — For God is the one who for the sake of his good pleasure energizes you, giving you both the desire and the power to act.

Answer 2: This text gives us a reason to pray with confidence: Jehovah can help us have both the desire and the strength to act. If shyness holds us back, we do not have to rely solely on our willpower. We can ask him for help and take a simple step toward someone, trusting that he supports our efforts to show love.

Answer 3: Something that can help us is to change the focus of our attention. Instead of constantly thinking about what others will think of us, we can remember why we love our brothers. Then the question will no longer be only whether we are going to make a good impression but how we can show them affection. That focus gives us a valuable reason to draw close to them, even if our shyness does not disappear right away.

Answer 4: The paragraph offers a very simple way to break the ice: Ask someone how his day went and listen attentively. We do not need to prepare a brilliant conversation or do all the talking. Sincere interest is also shown by listening. This suggestion can reassure us if we are shy, because it allows us to begin with a simple question and focus on the person instead of worrying too much about what we will say next.

7. How may we sometimes feel, and what is it good for us to do?

Answer 1: At times, our daily responsibilities leave us emotionally exhausted, and we feel that we do not have the strength or time to cultivate friendships. The paragraph acknowledges that we need to rest, but it also reminds us that we need friends. So it is good to seek a balance. Even if on some occasion we do not feel much like socializing, spending time with the brothers can help us form friendships that will later give us encouragement and support.

Proverbs 11:25 — The generous person will prosper, And whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Answer 2: This proverb helps us see that giving encouragement does not always leave us with less strength; it can also refresh us. When we are tired, we may think only about the effort involved in socializing. But the time we spend with a friend can benefit both of us. So it is good to remember not only how difficult it may be for us to approach others but also the good it can do for us.

Answer 3: Needing some time to rest does not mean that we are doing something wrong. The paragraph acknowledges that need and avoids presenting friendship as another exhausting obligation. At the same time, it helps us not to think that being alone is always the only way to recover. A good friendship can also strengthen us emotionally and spiritually. The important thing is not to habitually neglect contact with others because of tiredness.

Answer 4: It is good to remember that friendships require time. If we wait until we feel completely rested and free from responsibilities, we may find it difficult to find an opportunity to cultivate them. The paragraph encourages us to make some effort even when we do not feel much like socializing. This does not mean ignoring our limits, but recognizing that spending time with good friends can also help us regain the encouragement we need.

8. (a) Why is it good to have a wide variety of friends?

Answer 1: Because having a wide variety of friends enriches our life and can help us grow as Christians. If we seek out only people of our age, culture, or interests, we ourselves reduce our opportunities to form good friendships. The paragraph compares that limitation to a flowerpot that is too small for a plant. Broadening our circle allows us to discover that we can enjoy the friendship of brothers who at first seem very different from us.

Philippians 2:19-22 — Now I am hoping in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I may be encouraged when I receive news about you. For I have no one else of a disposition like his who will genuinely care for your concerns. For all the others are seeking their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know the proof he gave of himself, that like a child with a father he slaved with me to advance the good news.

Answer 2: Paul valued Timothy’s spiritual qualities. Their friendship shows that differences do not prevent people from being very close when they share love for Jehovah.

Answer 3: Having friends who are different helps us not to confuse compatibility with sameness. Perhaps there is no one in the congregation our age or with our same interests, but that does not mean that we cannot make good friends. The example of Paul and Timothy encourages us to look beyond those differences. We can focus on the love that the brothers have for Jehovah and on the qualities that make them valuable as friends.

8. (b) What do we learn from what the apostle Paul said about Timothy? (Philippians 2:19-22).

Answer 1: It teaches us that spiritual qualities can closely unite two people even when they are different. Paul especially appreciated that Timothy sincerely cared about the brothers. He did not value him solely on the basis of what they had in common personally. When choosing friends, we too can give greater importance to their concern for others and their love for Jehovah than to their age or interests.

Answer 2: Paul explained that Timothy had proved his worth by serving alongside him in spreading the good news. This helps us understand why he valued him so highly: he knew his willingness and had seen how he acted. We can apply this idea by giving the brothers opportunities to let us come to know their qualities. If we focus only on the differences we notice at first, we could overlook a good friend.

Answer 3: I am struck by the affection with which Paul described his cooperation with Timothy, comparing it to that of a child with his father. Their relationship shows that being different does not prevent us from enjoying a very close friendship. So we do not need to look for someone who is just like us. We can broaden our circle and appreciate those who share our desire to serve Jehovah and who show sincere concern for the brothers.

9. What must we do to have friends?

Answer 1: To have friends, we must first behave as friends. This requires effort on our part, rather than simply waiting for someone else to take the initiative. The paragraph presents five qualities that will help us: loyalty, gratitude, affection, a willingness to forgive, and generosity. We can consider which of these we most need to develop and begin putting it into practice with the brothers we already know.

Answer 2: We need to work hard both to initiate friendships and to preserve them. It is not enough to get along well with someone at first; we need to continue treating that person with loyalty, gratitude, and affection. In addition, we will need to forgive and be generous. These suggestions help us see that a strong friendship depends on how we habitually treat the person, not just on one pleasant moment we have shared.

Answer 3: The paragraph invites us to focus on what we can do. Instead of asking only why we do not have more friends, we can examine ourselves and think about what kind of friend we are being. Are we loyal and grateful? Do we express affection? Are we willing to forgive and to share? This approach turns our desire to have friends into concrete actions that contribute to forming and maintaining good relationships.

10. Why should we be loyal to our friends, and how can we do so?

Micah 6:8 — He has told you, O man, what is good. And what is Jehovah requiring of you? Only to exercise justice, to cherish loyalty, And to walk in modesty with your God!

Answer 1: We should be loyal because Jehovah values this quality and expects us to love it. He himself sets the example by not abandoning his friends because they are imperfect. We imitate him when we remain at our friends’ side both in good times and in difficulties. In this way, our loyalty does not depend only on whether the relationship is easy or pleasant.

Answer 2: An important way to be loyal is to protect our friends’ reputation. The paragraph says that we speak well of them, so loyalty is also demonstrated when they are not present. We can ask ourselves whether our words contribute to others’ respecting them or whether they could harm them. Being careful about how we speak about them is a way to show that their friendship matters to us and that they can trust us.

Answer 3: Being loyal means standing by our friends in different circumstances. We are not there only to share a joy; we also want to be at their side when they suffer. At times we may rejoice with them, and at other times we may need to listen to them and share their sadness. This constancy reflects Jehovah’s example. It also helps our friends know that they do not have to be having a good time in order to count on our affection.

Answer 4: Loyalty can greatly strengthen trust between friends. The paragraph reminds us that Prisca and Aquila were willing to put themselves in danger for Paul, showing how far the support of good friends can go. This does not mean that we demand such sacrifices from others. Rather, it encourages us to cultivate a firm friendship ourselves, demonstrating by our actions that we do not abandon those we love when they need help.

11. (a) Why should we be grateful to our friends?

Answer 1: We should be grateful because gratitude strengthens the affection between friends, whereas its absence can greatly weaken the relationship. When someone does something good for us, we do not want to treat that person as though he were obligated to do it. Thanking him shows that we have noticed his kindness and value it. That simple response helps prevent our friendship from becoming a relationship in which we only expect to receive.

Colossians 3:15 — Also, let the peace of the Christ rule in your hearts, for you were called to that peace in one body. And show yourselves thankful.

Answer 2: Paul includes thankfulness among the qualities we should demonstrate. So it is not enough to feel appreciation inside; we should express it. In our friendships, we can apply this counsel by avoiding taking for granted what others do for us. When we thank them for their help, we contribute to the growth of affection and closeness between us.

Answer 3: Gratitude protects us from becoming so accustomed to a friend’s kindness that we stop valuing it. Someone may have helped us many times, but that does not make what he continues to do for us any less important. The paragraph encourages us always to be grateful. So we should maintain the habit of saying thank you, including to our closest friends, rather than thinking that they already know how much we appreciate their help.

Answer 4: The picture of the older sister shows a beautiful application. After receiving the couple’s visit and help, she prepares a card to thank them for what they have done. Gratitude is not presented as something complicated, but as an expression of appreciation. We too can look for a simple and sincere way to thank our friends for their help. In this way, we let them know that their kindness has not gone unnoticed.

11. (b) How did Jesus teach that it is important to be grateful? (Luke 17:11-18; see also the pictures.)

Answer 1: Jesus taught this by highlighting the reaction of the leper who returned to thank him. He had healed ten, but only one came back to express his gratitude and give glory to God. Jesus pointed out that difference. Thus, he showed that receiving something good is not the same as expressing gratitude for it. We can apply the lesson by making sure that the relief or joy we feel when receiving help does not make us forget the one who helped us.

Answer 2: Luke’s account shows that Jesus noticed both gratitude and its absence. He did not treat the response of the man who returned as an insignificant detail. This teaches us that expressing gratitude has value. In a friendship, we should not assume that simply feeling happy about a favor received is enough. We can pause and tell the person how much we appreciate his kindness, following the attitude of the man who returned.

Answer 3: Jesus pointed out that the man who returned had given glory to God. Thus, he connected his gratitude with something deeper than a mere formality. The man recognized the good he had received and expressed it. For us, the application is to value from the heart the kindness others show us. When we thank them for their help, we demonstrate that we do not regard their efforts as automatic, but as an expression of affection that we appreciate.

Answer 4: The pictures help us apply Jesus’ lesson to our life. The leper was grateful for his healing, and the older sister is grateful for the practical help and companionship she received. The situations are different, but in both, appreciation is expressed for something good. Thus, we learn that we do not need to wait to receive extraordinary help before saying thank you. The everyday details of our friends’ kindness also deserve a sincere response of gratitude.

12. What do we learn from the example of Jehovah and Jesus? (John 11:3, 5, 33-36; 13:1.)

Luke 3:22 — and the holy spirit in bodily form like a dove came down upon him, and a voice came out of heaven: “You are my Son, the beloved; I have approved you.”

Answer 1: Jehovah clearly expressed the affection he felt for Jesus. Although his Son already knew that he loved him, hearing that expression of love was very meaningful. We learn that we should not take for granted that our friends know how much we love them. Telling them can strengthen our relationship and make them feel loved, even when we have been friends for a long time.

Answer 2: Jesus teaches us that love is also shown by sharing our friends’ pain. The account about Lazarus shows how much he loved that family and how deeply he was moved by their suffering. He did not keep an emotional distance. We can imitate his example by taking a genuine interest in what our friends feel and showing them affection when they are sad. At times, our companionship and sensitivity will express much of what we feel.

Answer 3: From Jesus’ example, we learn that affection should be constant. The paragraph highlights that he continued loving his disciples until the end of his life on earth. His love was not a passing emotion, nor was it limited to words. This encourages us to continue showing affection to our friends as time passes, rather than allowing familiarity or habit to cause our expressions of affection to disappear.

Answer 4: The love that Jehovah and Jesus express moves their friends to reciprocate. The paragraph explains that Jehovah’s expressions of affection make us love him even more, and it recalls that Peter also expressed his affection for Jesus. This teaches us that showing love can strengthen mutual affection. We do not always have to wait for the other person to say it first; we can take the initiative and thereby contribute to a closer friendship.

13. In what ways do we show our friends that we love them?

Answer 1: We can show our friends that we love them by telling them and praising their good qualities. At times, we feel deep appreciation for a friend but hardly ever express it. The paragraph encourages us not to be embarrassed about showing affection. We can think of a quality we truly value in that person and let him know. Then our words will not be a formula, but a sincere expression of what we see and appreciate in him.

Romans 12:10 — In brotherly love have tender affection for one another. In showing honor to one another, take the lead.

Answer 2: This counsel encourages us to take the initiative in showing affection and consideration. We do not have to wait for our friends to express their affection first. We can let them know that we value them and be willing to help them. In this way, we imitate the example of Jehovah and Jesus, whose love is expressed in ways their friends can perceive.

Answer 3: Another way to show love is to be willing to help. Affection is not limited to saying kind words; it is also seen in our willingness to do something for our friends. The paragraph links both things: expressing what we feel and offering support. This invites us to ask ourselves whether our friends can see in our actions the love we have for them, especially when they need attention or practical help.

Answer 4: We also show affection by giving advice when a friend needs it. That may cost us more than offering praise, but the paragraph shows that both are part of a sincere friendship. If we truly care about his well-being, we will not think only about avoiding a difficult conversation. We will want our advice to reflect love and the desire to help him, because caring for a friendship also includes being concerned about what is good for him.

14. Why should we be willing to forgive?

Answer 1: We should be willing to forgive because our friends are imperfect, just as we are. Even someone who loves us dearly may say or do something that hurts us. Jehovah does not expect perfection from us, so it would not be reasonable to demand it from our friends either. Keeping this in mind helps us not to judge an entire friendship by one mistake and to value the effort that has gone into cultivating that relationship.

Proverbs 17:9 — Whoever forgives a transgression seeks love, But the one who keeps harping on a matter separates close friends.

Answer 2: This proverb shows that our reaction to an offense can bring us closer together or separate us. If we forgive, we help preserve love. But if we constantly bring up the mistake, we can damage the friendship. Therefore, forgiveness is not merely saying that the matter is settled; it also means not using what happened again and again to continue reproaching our friend.

Answer 3: A willingness to forgive helps us pursue peace. When a friend hurts us, we may become so focused on the offense that we forget how valuable our relationship is. The paragraph invites us to think about what we might lose if we do not forgive: a friendship that took time and effort to cultivate. By contrast, seeking a peaceful solution and forgiving without reservation may allow us to continue enjoying a deep relationship.

Answer 4: Forgiveness also prevents resentment from eventually harming us. The paragraph warns that if we are unwilling to forgive, we could end up angry, bitter, and alone. This does not mean denying that something hurt us, but deciding how we will respond. Remembering our own imperfection and Jehovah’s example can help us stop feeding our anger and give greater importance to peace and love.

15. Why should we be generous with our friends?

Answer 1: Generosity helps us to have close friendships. The paragraph clarifies that sharing is not limited to giving material things; it also includes our time and attention. This gives all of us opportunities to demonstrate this quality. Even if we do not have many resources, we can listen patiently and make time for a friend. Such actions show him that we value him and are willing to make room for him in our life.

Proverbs 11:25 — The generous person will prosper, And whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Answer 2: The proverb highlights that generosity also benefits the one who shows it. When we give our friends time and attention, we contribute to a relationship in which both of us can receive encouragement. We do not give in order to demand something in return, but because we care about the other person’s well-being. This willingness to comfort others is a good basis for cultivating close, lasting friendships.

Answer 3: We should be generous because even small details can strengthen a friendship. The paragraph mentions inviting someone to a meal, offering transportation, or listening patiently. Not all of us will be able to do the same things, but we can look for a way to share what we have. This helps us not to postpone generosity until we are able to do something great. A simple gesture can clearly express that our friend matters to us.

Answer 4: Listening patiently is a form of generosity highlighted in the paragraph. At times we can offer a friend something he greatly needs—our attention. To do this, it is not enough simply to be nearby; we need to be willing to give him time and show interest in what he says. If we want deep friendships, we cannot reserve all our attention for ourselves. Sharing it is a practical way to show love and strengthen the relationship.

16. Why are good friends so valuable?

Answer 1: Good friends are very valuable because they make our life happier and help us to continue serving Jehovah faithfully. Their value is not limited to the pleasant times we spend together. They can also strengthen us when we are discouraged and accompany us during difficult moments. The paragraph reminds us that we need this kind of support. Therefore, caring for our friendships deserves time and attention, not just when we have energy to spare.

Proverbs 17:17 — A true friend shows love at all times And is a brother who is born for times of distress.

Answer 2: This proverb highlights the constancy of a true friend. His love does not disappear when difficulties come; precisely then his support becomes especially valuable. This helps us appreciate those who remain at our side when we are not doing well. It also invites us to be that kind of friend—people others can rely on, and not merely companions with whom to spend an enjoyable time.

Answer 3: Paul’s case shows how much good a friend’s presence can do. According to the account cited in the paragraph, he was experiencing suffering and fears, and he received comfort when Titus arrived. This reminds us that our company can be very valuable to someone who is discouraged. We should not minimize the support we can give simply by being present and showing sincere interest in a brother.

Answer 4: Friends who love Jehovah are especially valuable because their support also benefits us spiritually. They can help us to keep going in our service to him and comfort us when we go through a difficulty. Thus, a good friendship is not merely something pleasant that we add to our life; it meets a need. Keeping its value in mind motivates us to care for our friends and appreciate the good they do for us.

17. Why are we sure that we can have friendships that last forever? (See the box “They Formed Lifelong Friendships.”)

Answer 1: We are sure because Jehovah has given us the ability to form and maintain friendships, and those of us who love him can remain friends forever. The paragraph ends with this encouraging perspective. It does not present friendship as something that depends only on having a sociable personality. With Jehovah’s help, we can overcome obstacles, apply his counsel, and care for relationships that have the possibility of lasting forever.

Answer 2: Our confidence is linked to continuing to make an effort. The paragraph encourages us to remember the practical suggestions and not to give up in the face of what makes it difficult to make friends. If we need to improve in loyalty, gratitude, affection, forgiveness, or generosity, we can keep working at it. Jehovah has given us the ability to cultivate such relationships, and sharing love for him gives us a valuable basis for maintaining lasting friendships.

Answer 3: I like that the paragraph does not focus only on making new friends. It also reminds us that we need to care for the friendships we already have. If we want a relationship to last, we need to continue giving it attention and affection. Thinking that those who love Jehovah can be friends forever gives us another reason to value these friendships now and not allow neglect to weaken them.

What are some obstacles to making friends, and how can we overcome them?

Answer 1: One obstacle is focusing too much on ourselves. We overcome it by showing sincere interest in the well-being of our brothers and sisters. Another obstacle is isolation, which can be physical or emotional. So we need to look for opportunities to associate with others in person and learn to share our feelings with someone we trust. This does not mean telling everything or always being with others, but it does mean avoiding habits that close us off to friendship.

Answer 2: Shyness can hold us back, especially if we are very concerned about what others think of us. We can ask Jehovah for help and take simple steps, such as smiling, saying hello, and listening attentively. The article also encourages us to focus on the love we feel for our brothers and sisters. Thus, instead of thinking only about our own discomfort, we will think about how to make the person we approach feel at ease.

Proverbs 11:25 — The generous person will prosper, And whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Answer 3: Exhaustion can make us feel that we have no energy to cultivate friendships. This proverb reminds us that refreshing others can also comfort us. We need to rest, but we do not want to forget that good friends can strengthen us. Therefore, it is wise to balance time alone with personal association, rather than thinking that associating with others will always leave us more tired.

Answer 4: We may also be limited by thinking that we can be friends only with people of our own age, culture, or interests. We overcome this obstacle by broadening our circle and giving greater importance to spiritual qualities. Paul and Timothy were different, but they enjoyed a close friendship. Their example encourages us to get to know our brothers and sisters better before concluding that we have little in common or that there is no one with whom we can form a friendship.

What are some suggestions for making and maintaining friendships?

Answer 1: The article highlights five suggestions: be loyal, be grateful, express affection, forgive, and be generous. All of them help us to act like the kind of friend we would like to have. We can apply loyalty by being present during difficult times; gratitude by expressing thanks for help; and affection by expressing what we value about the person. In addition, we need to forgive his mistakes and share our time and attention with him.

Proverbs 17:9 — Whoever forgives a transgression seeks love, But the one who keeps harping on a matter separates close friends.

Answer 2: An essential suggestion is to forgive. This proverb explains that repeatedly bringing up an offense can separate close friends. Since we are all imperfect, we cannot expect a relationship in which mistakes are never made. If we value the friendship, we will endeavor to promote peace and avoid allowing one mistake to continue becoming a reason for reproach.

Answer 3: We can strengthen friendships by making our appreciation evident. This includes saying thank you, expressing affection, and praising our friends’ good qualities. We do not want to assume that, because we have known one another for a long time, they no longer need to hear such words. The example of Jehovah and Jesus teaches us that expressing love is very valuable. Our sincere expressions of gratitude and affection can help the love between us to keep growing.

Answer 4: Loyalty and generosity turn our affection into practical support. We are loyal when we protect our friends’ reputation and remain at their side during difficulties. We are generous when we share resources, time, and attention. Something great is not always necessary: offering transportation, inviting someone to a meal, or listening patiently can strengthen the relationship. What matters is that our friends truly perceive that we care about their well-being.

How do Jehovah and Jesus treat their friends, and what does this teach us?

Answer 1: Jehovah treats his friends with loyal love and does not abandon them because they are imperfect. Jesus also demonstrated constant love for his disciples. This teaches us that friendship should not depend on the other person’s never making a mistake or on everything turning out easily. We can imitate them by standing by our friends, showing them affection, and being willing to forgive when something hurts us.

Proverbs 17:17 — A true friend shows love at all times And is a brother who is born for times of distress.

Answer 2: The constant friendship described in this proverb harmonizes with the example of Jehovah and Jesus. They show love and support, and they do not distance themselves from their friends when they suffer. We learn that we too should be present during difficulties. To care for a friendship, it is not enough to enjoy spending time together; we need to take an interest in the other person’s pain and offer comfort when needed.

Answer 3: Jehovah and Jesus express their affection; they do not keep it hidden. Jehovah let Jesus know how much he loved him, and Jesus showed affection and sensitivity toward his friends. This teaches us not to take for granted that others already know how we feel. We can tell them that we love them, highlight their good qualities, and show interest in their emotions. Such sincere expressions help make the friendship stronger.

Answer 4: Jehovah is interested in the well-being of his friends and gives them comfort. The article recalls how Paul was comforted through the presence of Titus. Jesus also showed sensitivity toward the suffering of those he loved. We can imitate them by being willing to give our friends time and attention. At times, our companionship will be an important help. In this way, we show that our affection is not limited to words but moves us to act.