In Young Life, we know the power of relationships; we don’t need to be convinced. However, it’s always affirming when publications like the New York Times recognize the power of something as simple as friendship. While the theme of this article is about how friendships can help lower socio-economic students perform better simply by having friendships with those with more affluence, the power of friendship is unmistakable. Your friends strongly influence how you perceive reality.
“Friends are not just by your side; they get inside you. If you want to help people change, help them change their friendships.”
Now, in Young Life, we’re working toward something more powerful than simply upward mobility in the economic food chain. But, if friendships can have that profound effect for socioeconomic levels, imagine how powerful they can be when sharing our faith?
**Exercise: Share and discuss with your leadership team, Committee, Discipleship group and larger mission community to foster more intentional ways grow your relationships through friendship.