Sales Pitch or Friendship Pitch? How Single Senior Christian Men Can Discern the Difference
Learn how to discern between a genuine friendship and a hidden sales pitch, and respond in a godly way. A must-read for senior Christian men seeking wisdom and authentic relationships.
Have You Ever Been Caught Off Guard by a “Friendship” That Was Really a Sales Pitch?
It’s happened to me more than once. A man approached me with what seemed like genuine interest—asking about my life, my work, and even sharing personal stories. We talked about more than just business; we shared about family, experiences, and even our faith.
I thought it was the start of a friendship.
But then came the turn in the conversation—he introduced his business plan and wanted me to “buy in.” At first, I agreed. But later, I realized it wasn’t friendship at all—it was a sales pitch. And once I declined? The conversations stopped. The “friend” disappeared.
That experience opened my eyes to a reality every senior Christian man should understand: not everyone who approaches you is looking for a relationship—some are looking for your wallet.
The Bible’s Wisdom on Discernment
“The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.” – Proverbs 14:15 (ESV)
God’s Word calls us to walk in wisdom, especially when it comes to relationships. Here are three biblical principles to help you discern:
- Look for Consistency
True friends remain even when you say “no” to an opportunity they present. - Guard Your Heart
Proverbs 4:23 tells us to “keep your heart with all vigilance.” Protect your emotional and financial wellbeing. - Seek God’s Guidance
Ask God to reveal motives and give you wisdom before making commitments.
How to Respond in a Godly Way
Being cautious doesn’t mean being cold. You can still be kind, but you don’t have to be naïve. Here’s how:
- Listen without making immediate commitments.
- Ask clarifying questions to understand the true intent.
- Pray before deciding—especially if money is involved.
A Prayer for Discernment
Lord, give me a heart that is open to true friendship and wise enough to discern hidden motives. Help me value authentic relationships over shallow connections, and give me the courage to walk away from anything that is not rooted in love and truth. Amen.
Final Thought
Friendship is a gift from God. It should never be manipulated for personal gain. As single senior Christian men let’s strive to build relationships that are anchored in trust, truth, and mutual respect.
