Abraham and Lot were close partners in business. Then a problem arose: '...Their possessions were so great that they could not dwell together. And there was strife between the herdsmen...' (Genesis 13:6-7 NKJ) So Abraham said, 'Please separate from me. If you take the left, then I will go to the right...' (Genesis 13:9 NKJ) They realised the time had come to go their separate ways.

Sometimes friendships or relationships are only for certain seasons in your life and *newsflash* that's actually ok. The fact is, people change because of their experiences and the things that life throws at them. You may find that what was once a natural fit is a bit of a struggle now, doing more to damage you both than it is helping either of you.

Need some Bible tips on how to shape a good friendship? Here are five. (1) Proverbs 12:26 NIV - 'The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.' (2) Proverbs 13:20 NIV - 'Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.' (3) Proverbs 14:6-7 NIV - 'A mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning. Stay away from a fool for you will not find knowledge on their lips.' (4) Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV - 'Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.' (5) 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV - 'Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.' So, how are your friendships looking? Today, ask God's opinion on them. Pray with your Bible open next to you, ask Him and listen.