One of the most precious gifts a person can have in life, is a true friend. Most people find it hard to make friendships that last. However, that doesn't mean that they are undesirable. A true friendship is a rarity that doesn't come often. When a friendship is truly made, it's generally easy to maintain, because after a certain point, both people begin to know and understand each other. Here is a list of tips that I've learned through personal experience with my friendships. To many people, most of these may seem obvious, but it never hurts to be reminded of them.

Be Honest
Being honest is key in any relationship. Where you have honesty, you have trust. Trust is a required fundamental for a healthy bond. Nobody wants to be with someone that they can't trust. Of course, some honest opinions are better left unsaid, if they will hurt the other person's feelings. But you never need to lie to a friend. Lies will almost always be found out in the end, and lies can seriously hurt a friendship.

Be Yourself
The people who love you, love you for you! They knew you weren't perfect when they met you. You don't ever have to put on an act, or pretend to be something that you're not. When your friends know that you're being yourself, and that you're comfortable being yourself around them, then they will be more comfortable as well. It will make your time spent together much more enjoyable as well.

Don't Use Your Friends for Your Own Gain
This isn't as uncommon as it sounds. Friends can often use their friends for their own benefits, without even realizing it. Let your friends know that you enjoy them, merely for their presence in your life, and because they bring joy to your heart. A good friend is worth more than all of the riches of this world.

Keep in Contact

It's not always easy to keep in close contact, especially when you're separated from your friends. But even if it just takes a few minutes of your time, let them know that they are in your thoughts. Send them a quick text if anything. It can really brighten a person's day.

Have Deep Conversations

One of the best experiences a friendship can offer, is a deep, thought-provoking conversation. Conversations about different philosophies, or beliefs, or big questions that either of you may have. It's always good for the mind to have good conversations. They keep us thinking, and it's always a refreshing feeling to engage in discussion with someone you care deeply about.

These tips may vary from person to person, but from my experience, these tips have helped me with my friendships. The Lord Jesus has been teaching me, and is still teaching me, how to maintain strong relationships with the people that I love, and it really is a blessing to have people in your life that you care about. And to know that they love you for you, is a beautiful thing.