Looking for Bible verses about saying thank you to a friend? You’ve come to the right place. Today’s content is tailored for those seeking to express gratitude to their companions through scripture. Here, we’ll explore Bible verses that emphasize the importance of thankfulness in friendships. These passages will help you better understand how to appreciate and acknowledge your friends according to biblical teachings. Let’s delve into what the Word says about showing gratitude to those close to us.
Contents
- 1 What Does the Bible Say About Gratitude Toward Friends?
- 1.1 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – Encourage and uplift one another always
- 1.2 Philippians 1:3 – Grateful remembrance of friends in prayers
- 1.3 Proverbs 17:17 – A friend loves at all times
- 1.4 Proverbs 27:9 – Sweetness of a friend’s counsel brings joy
- 1.5 Colossians 3:16 – Let gratitude and teachings enrich your community
- 1.6 Romans 12:10 – Show love and honor to one another
- 2 Bible Verses About Appreciating God-Given Friendships
- 2.1 Philippians 2:3 – Value others above yourselves with humility
- 2.2 John 15:13 – Ultimate love: sacrificing life for friends
- 2.3 Ecclesiastes 4:9 – Two together succeed more than one alone
- 2.4 1 Peter 4:8 – Love deeply, love covers a multitude of sins
- 2.5 1 John 4:7 – Love one another, reflecting God’s love for us
- 2.6 Proverbs 27:17 – Friends sharpen and strengthen one another
- 3 How to Express Biblical Gratitude to Your Friends
- 3.1 1 John 3:18 – Love through actions, not just words
- 3.2 Romans 16:4 – Risked lives for me, gratitude for their sacrifice
- 3.3 Colossians 3:15 – Let Christ’s peace rule, be thankful
- 3.4 Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind, compassionate, and forgiving to one another
- 3.5 Hebrews 10:24 – Encourage love and good deeds among friends
- 4 Scripture Verses for Thanking a Special Friend
- 5 Bible Passages About Friendship and Thanksgiving
- 5.1 Romans 1:8 – Thank God for your friends’ faithfulness worldwide
- 5.2 Psalm 133:1 – Unity among friends is precious and delightful
- 5.3 Proverbs 27:6 – Wounds from a friend show faithful love
- 5.4 2 Corinthians 1:11 – Thankful for prayers and support from friends
- 5.5 Philippians 4:6 – Pray with thanksgiving, let requests be known
- 5.6 Ephesians 1:16 – Continual gratitude and prayers for friends
- 6 Christian Ways to Show Appreciation to Friends Using Scripture
- 7 Biblical Examples of Gratitude Between Friends
What Does the Bible Say About Gratitude Toward Friends?
Friends are a true blessing in our lives. They stand by us in times of joy and hardship, offering support and companionship. The Bible encourages us to express our gratitude for these invaluable relationships. By acknowledging their presence in our lives, we honor the gifts God has given us through them. Let’s explore what the scriptures say about being thankful for our friends.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 – Encourage and uplift one another always

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, edify one another, even as also ye do
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of mutual encouragement and support among friends. It urges us to express gratitude and uplift one another, fostering a community of love and positivity. By acknowledging and appreciating our friends, we strengthen our bonds and reflect Christ’s love.
Philippians 1:3 – Grateful remembrance of friends in prayers

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you
Philippians 1:3
Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of expressing gratitude for friends by remembering them in prayers. It teaches us to cherish and appreciate the relationships we have, acknowledging the joy and support they bring into our lives through heartfelt thanksgiving.
Proverbs 17:17 – A friend loves at all times

A friend loveth at all times, a brother is born for adversity
Proverbs 17:17
Explanation:- This verse highlights the unwavering support and love true friends provide. It reminds us to be grateful for friends who stand by us in all circumstances, encouraging us to express our appreciation and gratitude for their constant presence and love.
Proverbs 27:9 – Sweetness of a friend’s counsel brings joy

Ointment perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man’s friend by hearty counsel
Proverbs 27:9
Explanation:- This verse highlights the joy and comfort that come from a friend’s sincere advice. Just as pleasant aromas uplift the spirit, a friend’s genuine counsel can bring happiness and reassurance. It underscores the importance of expressing gratitude for the supportive guidance friends provide.
Colossians 3:16 – Let gratitude and teachings enrich your community

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching admonishing one another in psalms hymns spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord
Colossians 3:16
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to let Christ’s teachings and wisdom dwell richly among us, fostering gratitude and mutual learning. In the context of friendship, it highlights the importance of expressing thankfulness and sharing spiritual insights to enrich and uplift each other.
Romans 12:10 – Show love and honor to one another

Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another
Romans 12:10
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to express gratitude and affection towards friends by showing love and honoring one another. It highlights the importance of nurturing relationships through kindness and respect, reminding us that genuine connections are strengthened by mutual appreciation and care.
Bible Verses About Appreciating God-Given Friendships
Friendships are not mere happenstance but divine gifts. They enrich our journeys and help us grow spiritually. By appreciating these relationships, we acknowledge God’s hand in our lives. Recognizing friends as God-given companions strengthens our bonds and deepens our gratitude. Let’s reflect on the verses that highlight the importance of valuing these friendships.
Philippians 2:3 – Value others above yourselves with humility

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves
Philippians 2:3
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to value our friends by placing their needs above our own with genuine humility. By doing so, we reflect Christ’s love and nurture the God-given friendships in our lives, showing gratitude and appreciation for their presence and support.
John 15:13 – Ultimate love: sacrificing life for friends

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends
John 15:13
Explanation:- This verse highlights the ultimate expression of love through self-sacrifice. It underscores the deep value of friendships and encourages us to cherish and appreciate those God-given relationships. It serves as a reminder of the profound love and commitment we should have for our friends.
Ecclesiastes 4:9 – Two together succeed more than one alone

Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour
Ecclesiastes 4:9
Explanation:- This verse highlights the strength and success found in companionship. It underscores the value of friendships, encouraging gratitude for friends who support us. By working together, friends can achieve more than they could alone, reflecting the importance of appreciating these God-given relationships.
1 Peter 4:8 – Love deeply, love covers a multitude of sins

Above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins
1 Peter 4:8
Explanation:- True love involves deep affection and understanding, extending grace and forgiveness. It is crucial in nurturing friendships, allowing us to overlook faults and maintain harmony. Embracing love strengthens bonds and reflects the divine nature of relationships, fostering appreciation for God-given friendships.
1 John 4:7 – Love one another, reflecting God’s love for us

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; every one that loveth is born of God, knoweth God
1 John 4:7
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to love each other, mirroring God’s love for us. It’s a reminder that our friendships are gifts from God, and expressing gratitude strengthens these bonds. By loving our friends, we reflect God’s love and appreciation for the relationships He has blessed us with.
Proverbs 27:17 – Friends sharpen and strengthen one another

Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend
Proverbs 27:17
Explanation:- This verse highlights the mutual growth and improvement that occur in friendships. Just as iron sharpens iron, genuine friends support, challenge, and uplift each other, enhancing their character and strengthening their bond. It underscores the importance of appreciating the God-given relationships that enrich our lives.
How to Express Biblical Gratitude to Your Friends
Expressing gratitude is more than just words; it’s about showing appreciation through actions. The Bible provides guidance on how to genuinely thank our friends. By living out these principles, we can demonstrate our love and appreciation in ways that resonate deeply. Let’s examine how scripture advises us to express this gratitude.
1 John 3:18 – Love through actions, not just words

My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed in truth
1 John 3:18
Explanation:- 1 John 3:18 teaches us to show love through genuine actions, not just words. In expressing gratitude to friends, this means actively demonstrating appreciation and kindness. True biblical gratitude involves tangible acts of love and support, reflecting our sincere thankfulness.
Romans 16:4 – Risked lives for me, gratitude for their sacrifice
Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles
Romans 16:4
Explanation:- This verse highlights the deep gratitude Paul felt toward friends who risked their lives for him. It serves as a powerful reminder to express heartfelt thanks to those who make personal sacrifices for us, recognizing their courage and selflessness as true acts of friendship.
Colossians 3:15 – Let Christ’s peace rule, be thankful

Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; be ye thankful
Colossians 3:15
Explanation:- In this verse, gratitude is linked to the peace of Christ ruling in our hearts. By allowing Christ’s peace to guide us, we can genuinely appreciate and express thankfulness to our friends, fostering harmonious relationships and reflecting Christ’s love in our interactions.
Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind, compassionate, and forgiving to one another

Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you
Ephesians 4:32
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to show kindness, compassion, and forgiveness to our friends, reflecting God’s love. By embodying these qualities, we express gratitude and strengthen our relationships, creating a supportive and loving community. It teaches us to appreciate and cherish our friendships.
Hebrews 10:24 – Encourage love and good deeds among friends

Let us consider one another to provoke unto love to good works
Hebrews 10:24
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to motivate our friends towards love and good deeds. Expressing gratitude to friends aligns with this by acknowledging their positive influence and encouraging them in their journey. It’s about fostering a supportive community that inspires kindness and generosity.
Scripture Verses for Thanking a Special Friend
When a friend has gone above and beyond for us, it’s important to acknowledge their kindness and support. The Bible has several verses that can help us find the right words to express our heartfelt thanks. Let’s look at some scriptures that can guide us in thanking our special friends.
Proverbs 18:24 – True friends are loyal and closer than family

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother
Proverbs 18:24
Explanation:- True friends show unwavering loyalty and support, often surpassing even familial bonds. This verse highlights the profound connection and trust shared between genuine friends, underscoring the importance of cherishing and expressing gratitude for these special relationships in our lives.
1 Samuel 18:3 – Jonathan’s covenant of friendship with David
Then Jonathan David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul
1 Samuel 18:3
Explanation:- In this verse, Jonathan and David form a deep bond of friendship, sealed by a covenant. This highlights the importance of expressing gratitude and loyalty to friends. Their relationship exemplifies heartfelt commitment and mutual support, serving as a model for appreciating and thanking special friends.
Colossians 1:3 – Thank God for faithful friends in prayers
We give thanks to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you
Colossians 1:3
Explanation:- In this verse, Paul expresses gratitude in his prayers for the faithful friends in the Colossian church. It highlights the importance of thanking God for the special friends in our lives, acknowledging their role in our spiritual journey and community.
Philemon 1:4 – Thank God for friends in your prayers
I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers
Philemon 1:4
Explanation:- Philemon 1:4 encourages gratitude by highlighting the importance of thanking God for friends in our prayers. It reminds us to appreciate and cherish the special people in our lives, recognizing their positive impact and expressing gratitude to God for their presence.
Bible Passages About Friendship and Thanksgiving
Friendship and thanksgiving are deeply intertwined in the Bible. These passages remind us that relationships are a source of joy and gratitude. By reflecting on these scriptures, we can better appreciate the bonds we share with others. Discover these uplifting passages that celebrate friendship and thankfulness.
Romans 1:8 – Thank God for your friends’ faithfulness worldwide
First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world
Romans 1:8
Explanation:- Express gratitude for the faithfulness of your friends, as their steadfastness in faith inspires and strengthens communities worldwide. Recognizing their positive impact encourages a spirit of thanksgiving, fostering deeper connections and mutual appreciation among believers.
Psalm 133:1 – Unity among friends is precious and delightful

Behold, how good how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity
Psalm 133:1
Explanation:- Unity among friends is both precious and delightful, highlighting the joy and strength that come from harmonious relationships. This verse encourages us to cherish and nurture our friendships, fostering gratitude and appreciation for the supportive and loving bonds we share.
Proverbs 27:6 – Wounds from a friend show faithful love

Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful
Proverbs 27:6
Explanation:- True friends offer honest, loving guidance, even if it’s difficult to hear. Their constructive criticism, though it may initially hurt, is a sign of their genuine care and loyalty. This wisdom encourages gratitude for friends who prioritize our growth and well-being over superficial comfort.
2 Corinthians 1:11 – Thankful for prayers and support from friends
Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf
2 Corinthians 1:11
Explanation:- In this verse, Paul expresses gratitude for the prayers and support of others. It highlights the importance of community and friendship, showing how mutual support and thanksgiving strengthen bonds and help us overcome challenges together.
Philippians 4:6 – Pray with thanksgiving, let requests be known

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God
Philippians 4:6
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to approach God with a thankful heart, sharing our needs and requests with Him. In the context of friendship, it reminds us to express gratitude for our friends and to pray for them, fostering deeper, more meaningful relationships.
Ephesians 1:16 – Continual gratitude and prayers for friends

Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers
Ephesians 1:16
Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of expressing gratitude and offering prayers for friends, demonstrating continual appreciation and support. It encourages fostering strong, thankful relationships by acknowledging the positive impact friends have on our lives and keeping them in our hearts and prayers.
Christian Ways to Show Appreciation to Friends Using Scripture
Our faith encourages us to show appreciation to those who walk with us. By using scripture, we can express our gratitude in a meaningful and heartfelt way. These verses guide us in honoring our friends with love and sincerity. Consider these biblical ways to convey appreciation to your friends.
1 Corinthians 1:4 – Thank God for friends and their grace in Christ

I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ
1 Corinthians 1:4
Explanation:- Express gratitude for your friends by acknowledging the grace God has given them. This verse encourages us to appreciate the divine qualities in our friends, recognizing that their presence is a blessing and a reflection of God’s love and grace in our lives.
Galatians 6:2 – Bear burdens, fulfilling Christ’s law of love

Bear ye one another’s burdens, so fulfil the law of Christ
Galatians 6:2
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to support and uplift one another, embodying Christ’s love through our actions. By helping friends carry their burdens, we show appreciation and gratitude, reflecting the core of Christian fellowship and fulfilling the law of love.
Hebrews 13:1 – Continue in brotherly love

Let brotherly love continue
Hebrews 13:1
Explanation:- Hebrews 13:1 encourages us to maintain love and kindness towards friends and family. By expressing gratitude and appreciation through our actions and words, we embody Christian values, strengthening relationships and fostering a supportive community rooted in genuine brotherly love.
1 Thessalonians 5:15 – Pursue good, not evil, toward all people

See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, to all men
1 Thessalonians 5:15
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to seek the good in our interactions with others, promoting kindness and avoiding harm. In the context of appreciating friends, it reminds us to express gratitude and encouragement, fostering positive relationships grounded in Christian love and support.
Biblical Examples of Gratitude Between Friends
The Bible is filled with stories of friendship and gratitude, offering us timeless examples to follow. These narratives showcase the beauty of friendship and the importance of expressing thanks. By learning from these examples, we can enrich our own relationships. Explore these biblical stories that highlight gratitude between friends.
Ruth 1:16 – Commitment and loyalty to a friend
Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, thy God my God
Ruth 1:16
Explanation:- Ruth’s declaration to Naomi highlights deep commitment and loyalty, demonstrating gratitude and unwavering support. This example of friendship illustrates how true bonds are strengthened by selfless devotion and love, serving as a powerful reminder to cherish and appreciate the friends in our lives.
1 Samuel 20:17 – Jonathan’s love and gratitude for David
Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul
1 Samuel 20:17
Explanation:- In this verse, Jonathan expresses deep gratitude and love for his friend David by reaffirming their covenant. This act showcases the profound bond and loyalty between them, highlighting a biblical example of friendship grounded in mutual respect and gratitude.
Acts 20:37 – Emotional farewell and gratitude among friends
They all wept sore, fell on Paul’s neck, kissed him
Acts 20:37
Explanation:- In this verse, we witness a heartfelt farewell, highlighting deep bonds and gratitude among friends. The emotional expressions of love and appreciation serve as a powerful example of how friendships can be filled with sincere thankfulness and mutual respect.
Job 42:10 – Restored fortunes after praying for friends

The Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before
Job 42:10
Explanation:- After praying for his friends, Job’s fortunes were restored, highlighting the power of intercessory prayer and gratitude. This verse exemplifies how showing gratitude and care for others can lead to personal blessings, underlining the importance of selflessness and community in friendships.