When you look at the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, one thing that comes up a lot is how they first meet April O’Neil. It is usually kind of awkward and even leads to Mikey saying, “Can we keep her?” Not really the best way to start a friendship, but it is a start.
That raises a good question for us. How do you actually begin a friendship and make sure it grows into something healthy? Many people struggle with this. It can be difficult, it can feel risky, and some of us have been hurt in the past. In this episode of Geek Devotions, we want to give you a few simple tips for starting and developing healthy friendships.
Watch the full episode here:
Take the Initiative and Care About Their World
In the stories of the Turtles, you often see them stepping into April’s world. They see her in trouble and choose to help her. At first, she is skeptical, but as she realizes they genuinely care, the friendship begins to take root.
Paul tells the church in Philippians 2:3-4,
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
Starting a friendship means being willing to ask questions, to listen, and to care about what matters to the other person.
Actively Encourage Each Other
A healthy friendship cannot be one-sided. There has to be a back and forth where both people are intentional about showing care.
Hebrews 10:24-25 says,
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
Encouragement takes time. Sometimes it does not happen right away. It may take months or even years, but as you navigate this process, you begin to see genuine friendship grow.
Stay Loyal Even Through Hard Times
Friendship is tested in adversity. April and the Turtles grew closer because they walked through danger together. Real bonds are formed when people stand by each other in the middle of a struggle.
Proverbs 17:17 says,
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Walking through hardship together strengthens friendship. It is not always easy, but it creates trust and a deeper connection.
Closing Thoughts
To build a healthy friendship, you need to take the initiative, encourage each other, and remain loyal through hard times. None of this is easy, but it is worth it. True friendship takes effort, patience, and grace.