Q.	I have trouble choosing the right kind of friends. What should I do? Shelby, 11 Iowa
A.	Friends come in all shapes, sizes and personalities. And that’s the great thing about them. Each one is special and has something different to offer. But how can you be sure to have friends who will stick with you and encourage you to grow closer to God? Picking pals wisely is an important job and one you should take seriously. You spend a lot of time with friends, so they will influence you—for good or bad. Plus, having the wrong kind of friends can actually hurt you. Proverbs 13:20 says: “He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.” Start by making sure your closest friends know the Lord. Christian friends will encourage your faith and help you grow strong with God. Search for these qualities, too: honesty, loyalty and wisdom. Does this kind of friend sound too good to be true? Begin by trying to be the kind of friend you’re looking for. Then the right kind of pals will surround you.
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