Perhaps one of the best-known statements of the value of friendship in influencing others is that of Dale Carnegie who, in his classic self-help book How to Win Friends & Influence People, describes practical steps to friendship and influence. Carnegie’s central point is that when we take the time to express interest in another person’s life (and by this is meant a sincere, serious, and sustained interest rather than merely a passing interest), two things happen. Firstly, they begin to like us; and secondly, they become much more open to our message, whether that is selling them a product, convincing them of an idea, or sharing the Gospel. The lesson for us is clear: Take time to get to know someone and take a sincere interest in their life and experience. Then, when that friendship is struck and the time is right, begin to share the Gospel. By such means, you may not only win a friend but win a soul for the kingdom!