God's grace removes barriers like sins of the tongue, anger, and selfishness that damage relationships. It builds bridges of love by helping people develop qualities like kindness, forgiveness, patience and focusing on others. The document provides examples of difficult relationships caused by sin, and recommends speaking kindly, smiling, using names, being helpful, friendly, generous and thoughtful as ways to build strong friendships through God's grace.

1. God’s Love Builds Bridges to Friends God’s grace dismantles the barriers between people built by sin and builds bridges of love in their place! Scripture: James 3:13-18; Col. 3:1-17

2. Tiger on Friendship

3. Sin Builds Barriers Sins of the tongue add bitterness. Sins of uncontrolled anger create distance. Sins of greed and lust, and self-indulgence hurt others.

4. 5 Most Difficult Relationships The Critic The Martyr The Wet Blanket The Steamroller The Gossip From a survey of 100 people by Dr. Les Parrott Notice that at least 3 involve sins of the tongue!

5. God’s grace removes barriers and builds bridges of love in their place.

6. 10 Commandments of Friendship Speak to people- there’s nothing like a cheerful greeting. Smile at people- 72 muscles to frown, only 14 to smile! Call people by name- it’s the sweetest music. Be friendly and helpful- if you would have friends, be friendly. Be cordial- speak and act as if you enjoy life. Be genuinely interested in people. Be generous with praise; cautious with criticism. Be considerate of the feelings of others - it will be appreciated. Be thoughtful of the opinions of others. Be alert to give service.

7. God’s grace helps us build relationship bridges. The power of conversion turns cursing to blessing. Under the Spirit’s influence anger yields to self-control and grudges are replaced with a forgiving spirit. Instead of irritation with others, we learn forbearance and patience. Our carnal mind refocuses on higher things – kingdom values and the best interests of others.