The first gift of godly friendship is expressed in this verse: “Two are better than one, because they will have a good reward for their toil,” (Ecc. 4: 9). Somethings cannot be lifted alone. Consider trying to move a couch, a large box or a heavy burden. These are difficult to wield by oneself and having someone on the other end brings good reward for the work. In fact, Paul tells us that friends should carry burdens for each other in Galatians 6, which reads, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ,” (Gal. 6:2, ESV).
It must be noted in Galatians 6, that while Paul directs friends to carry each other’s burdens, each person must carry his own load (see Gal. 6:5). There is a difference between enabling unhealthy behavior and helping healthy behavior. Legitimate help is to do for someone that they cannot do for themselves. Enabling is to do for someone that which they could and should do for themselves. Helping is rewarding for both parties involved, while enabling cripples’ both people and relationships. Letting God lead in making friends and helping others is essential. Help on the journey is an excellent contribution of godly friendships.