44: Iron Sharpens Iron - Build Meaningful Friendships Today

Whatever Is Excellent with Leanne Tuggle

Remember in fourth-grade where cliques first form and best friendships begin to blossom? That pivotal age when children transition from befriending everyone to selecting their inner circle marks a critical developmental stage in social awareness.
The Bible offers profound wisdom about friendship's true nature. Genesis tells us clearly that solitude was never God's design – "It is not good for man to be alone." Jesus himself modeled perfect friendship through his relationships with the disciples, demonstrating loyalty, honesty, and selflessness. His words in John 15 reveal the ultimate standard: "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." Throughout Scripture, we see friendship's transformative power in relationships like David and Jonathan or Ruth and Naomi. The Proverbs remind us that "iron sharpens iron" – true friends challenge us to grow.
For military families constantly uprooting and rebuilding community, friendship requires unique courage. There's a temptation to keep relationships surface-level to avoid inevitable goodbyes, but Jesus showed us a better way. With only three years of earthly ministry, he didn't hold back from deep connection despite knowing separation was coming. Military friendships often develop remarkable depth precisely because time feels precious – there's no space for small talk when deployment looms. If you're hesitant to befriend someone who'll eventually move away, you might miss one of life's most enriching connections.
As parents, we must thoughtfully guide our children in choosing friends wisely while allowing them independence to form their own relationships. The people we surround ourselves with profoundly shape our character, values, and decisions. Consider the wisdom of Proverbs 13:20 – "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." Teach children to observe potential friends carefully: Do they show kindness? Demonstrate integrity? Tell the truth? As my daughter entered fourth grade, our discussions about friendship qualities became increasingly important, and I found myself sharing a simple mantra with my sons: "Good is cool."
What kind of friend do you want to be in this season? Who might God be inviting you to pursue in friendship, even if it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar? Take one small step this week – send that text, extend that invitation, initiate that conversation. Remember Ecclesiastes' wisdom: "Two are better than one... if either falls down, one can help the other up."

Connect with me!
You can find me on Instagram @mrs.leannetuggle or you can email me at [email protected]. I love hearing from you!
Would you like more weekly encouragement? Subscribe to my newsletter Whatever is Lovely and be inspired to open your inbox again.
https://leannetuggle.myflodesk.com/v3r2zwdaik
If this is your first time here and this episode resonated, hit “subscribe” and submit a 5-star rating if you feel genuinely inspired to. Your positive feedback means the world to me!
Episode Sponsors:
Rodan + Fields - Take this brief quiz to find your customized skincare routine!
Red Aspen - Skip the salon appointment and shop here for hands that are hardworking AND elegant.
Whatever is Lovely - Subscribe here to the weekly newsletter designed to encourage you with words of wisdom and relatable content. Be inspired to open your inbox again.

Chapters

1. Observing Friendship in Fourth Grade (00:00:00)

2. Biblical Perspective on Friendship (00:03:25)

3. Military Life and Temporary Friendships (00:06:49)

4. Teaching Children to Choose Friends Wisely (00:11:11)

5. Prayer and Pursuing Meaningful Connections (00:15:00)