Questions & Answers

Q. When my friend doesn’t do what I tell her, I say I won’t be her friend so I’ll get my way. This is becoming an addiction. How can I stop?
Victoria, 8
Alberta

A. We all want things to go our way, but resorting to manipulation is not a good idea. Manipulation is when we try to control others to get our own way. True friendship is all about love. First Corinthians 13:5 says, "[Love] is not self-seeking." When you threaten your friend by saying you won’t be her friend anymore, you’re being selfish instead of showing love.

Because this tactic has worked in the past, it may be hard to stop using it. Next time you’re tempted to threaten your friend to get your way, choose to give instead of take. When she tells you no, accept her answer. Ask her why she doesn’t want to do what you say, and listen carefully. See if you can do what she wants instead. If you look out for your friend’s best interest, your manipulative habits will fade and you’ll be doing things God’s way.

More Questions & Answers
 
 
Q: What do you get when an antelope and a caribou collide?
A: A cantaloupe.
Jacy and Joe C., 8 and 6, North Carolina
Clubhouse Jr.
 
 


Home : Stories : Movie Reviews : Your Stuff : Recipes : Crafts : Clubhouse Jr.

FAQs : Store : family.org : whitsend.org

Copyright © 2005 Focus on the Family. All rights reserved.
International copyright secured (800) A-FAMILY (232-6459) Privacy Policy