One of the greatest blessings in life is friendship, yet not all friendships are made equal. Fake friends bring betrayal, manipulation, and ulterior intentions, whereas good friends support, encourage, and walk by our side with loyalty. It can be extremely hurtful and spiritually confusing to be duped by someone you previously trusted.
Fortunately, the Bible is open and honest about these situations, providing guidance, insight, and healing to individuals negotiating the challenging landscape of false fellowship.
Examples of deceit and betrayal abound in Scripture, ranging from David’s anguish over a close friend’s betrayal to Judas Iscariot’s notorious kiss. These tales capture the very real emotional scars we still bear now; they are not just historical.
More significantly, though, they help us return to the God who recognizes our suffering and pledges to be our haven. In addition to teaching us how to spot false friends, His Word also teaches us how to react to them with dignity, discernment, and truth-based fortitude.
The Bible becomes a potent source of consolation and guidance when betrayal or disappointment. It serves as a reminder that God is our everlasting friend who is dependable, unchanging, and unfailing. Allow God to work in your heart, hone your judgment, and guide you into relationships that are a reflection of His integrity and love as you read through these Bible scriptures concerning phony friends. These verses will bring reality to your circumstances, whether you’re going through a difficult time or are just looking for guidance.
40 Powerful Bible Verses For Fake Friends (2025)
1. Psalm 41:9
“Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.”
This verse reflects David’s deep pain over betrayal by a trusted friend, echoing the heartbreak many feel when deceived by someone close. The imagery of shared bread underscores the intimacy of the relationship, making the betrayal even more bitter. This verse powerfully captures the anguish of betrayal and reminds us that even great leaders and faithful believers can experience disloyalty.
2. Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This proverb draws a stark contrast between true friends who offer correction and fake friends who flatter deceitfully. While the wounds of a real friend may hurt temporarily, they are meant to heal. Fake friends, on the other hand, hide their motives behind empty praise and manipulative kindness. This verse teaches us discernment and encourages us to value truth over flattery.
3. Matthew 26:48-49
“Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: ‘The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.’ Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed him.”
Judas’ betrayal of Jesus with a kiss is one of the most infamous acts of hypocrisy in Scripture. The symbol of affection became a signal of treachery, revealing how fake friends can use closeness as a cover for harm. This verse teaches that betrayal often comes not from enemies, but from those who walk closely beside us—yet God’s purposes can still prevail despite it.
4. Psalm 55:12-14
“If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it… But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God.”
David laments the betrayal of a close companion, someone with whom he once worshipped. The emotional pain is intensified because of the spiritual and personal bond they shared. This passage resonates deeply with those who’ve been hurt within faith communities or trusted relationships. It assures us that God sees and understands such betrayal intimately.
5. Micah 7:5-6
“Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend. Even with the woman who lies in your embrace guard the words of your lips.”
This sobering warning reflects a time of widespread disloyalty, when even the most intimate bonds were corrupted by deceit. It highlights the need for spiritual discernment and trust in God above human alliances. In seasons of betrayal, this verse serves as a reminder that only God is our unshakable refuge.
6. Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse warns about the destructive power of gossip and divisive speech. Fake friends often use rumors or twisted words to sow discord and erode trust between people. The Bible identifies such behavior as perverse and dangerous. It reminds us to protect our hearts and friendships from those who delight in stirring trouble.
7. Job 19:19
“All my intimate friends detest me; those I love have turned against me.”
In his suffering, Job experiences total abandonment—even from those he considered closest. This verse captures the loneliness and anguish felt when friends become foes. But Job’s faith endures, showing us that even when human loyalty fails, God remains present and faithful in our pain.
8. Psalm 109:5
“They repay me evil for good, and hatred for my friendship.”
This lament reveals the sting of unjust betrayal. David’s experience with people who returned his kindness with hostility speaks to the painful dynamic of fake friendships. This verse teaches that our goodness may not always be reciprocated, but God sees and will bring justice.
9. Luke 22:3-4
“Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus.”
The betrayal of Jesus begins here, orchestrated by someone within His inner circle. Judas’ deception reminds us that betrayal can come from within, even among those who appear closest. Yet, Jesus faced this with divine purpose, showing us how to respond to disloyalty with resolve and trust in God’s plan.
10. Proverbs 14:20
“The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends.”
This verse points to the conditional nature of many human relationships. Fake friends often flock to people for what they can gain, not out of genuine love. When circumstances change, so do their loyalties. This verse encourages us to seek relationships rooted in sincerity, not material advantage.
11. Proverbs 19:4
“Wealth attracts many friends, but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them.”
A timeless observation on the fickleness of human loyalty. This proverb warns that people may claim friendship for selfish reasons. When those benefits fade, so might the friendship. It urges us to measure relationships by spiritual integrity, not by social or financial gain.
12. Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.”
This is a clear directive to avoid those who spread secrets and cause division. Fake friends often reveal private matters for entertainment or manipulation. This verse urges wisdom in choosing our companions and cautions against entrusting our hearts to the wrong people.
13. Matthew 10:36
“A man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.”
Jesus forewarns that sometimes the deepest opposition comes from within our closest circles. While painful, such betrayal is not unknown to God. This verse prepares us to stand firm in faith even when those near us turn against us, knowing Christ Himself endured the same.
14. Psalm 118:8
“It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans.”
A foundational truth for navigating the pain of fake friends: God is our safe place. Human loyalty may falter, but divine faithfulness never fails. When disappointment strikes, this verse redirects our trust to the One who is eternally reliable.
15. Jeremiah 9:4
“Beware of your friends; do not trust anyone in your clan. For every one of them is a deceiver, and every friend a slanderer.”
Spoken during a time of rampant betrayal in Judah, this verse captures the height of relational corruption. It’s a sobering reminder that trust must be earned, not assumed. It calls us to spiritual alertness, especially when deceit becomes culturally accepted.
16. Proverbs 18:24
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
This verse contrasts shallow, unreliable friendships with loyal, covenant-level relationships. Fake friends may bring trouble and abandonment in times of need, but true friends remain steadfast. Ultimately, Jesus is the friend who never leaves, offering unwavering love where human companionship may fail.
17. Job 6:15
“But my brothers are as undependable as intermittent streams, as the streams that overflow when darkened by thawing ice.”
Job poetically describes how his companions, like unreliable streams, vanish when he most needs support. This simile illustrates the unreliability of fair-weather friends—present in ease, absent in adversity. His lament encourages us to place our ultimate confidence in God, not in inconsistent people.
18. Psalm 88:18
“You have taken from me friend and neighbor—darkness is my closest friend.”
This cry of despair illustrates deep spiritual and relational isolation. The psalmist mourns the complete absence of support, even from those closest. Yet this vulnerable honesty draws us toward God in seasons of betrayal and emotional darkness, teaching us to cling to Him when others fail.
19. 2 Timothy 4:16
“At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them.”
Paul experienced abandonment from his companions during a time of great need. Despite their failure, he extends grace. This verse shows us that even when fake friends desert us, we can respond with forgiveness, trusting in God’s justice and presence.
20. Psalm 38:11
“My friends and companions avoid me because of my wounds; my neighbors stay far away.”
David’s suffering isolates him not only physically but relationally. Those he expected to support him kept their distance. This verse highlights the shallowness of some friendships and calls us to lean on God when others cannot—or will not—walk with us through pain.
21. Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
This verse provides a clear standard for evaluating true friendship—constancy through adversity. Fake friends disappear in difficulty, but real friends remain. It reminds us to pursue and cultivate relationships based on unwavering love, especially in our times of need.
22. Psalm 35:12-14
“They repay me evil for good and leave me like one bereaved. Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting.”
David laments the betrayal of those he once supported. Despite his loyalty and compassion, he receives evil in return. This verse speaks to the heartbreak of unreciprocated friendship and reassures us that God sees both our sincerity and the injustice done against us.
23. Isaiah 29:13
“These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”
Though originally speaking of religious hypocrisy, this verse also reveals the essence of fake friendship—outward gestures without inward loyalty. It challenges us to recognize surface-level relationships and pursue deeper, authentic bonds rooted in the heart.
24. Psalm 101:5
“Whoever slanders their neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not tolerate.”
God speaks decisively against slander and pride—two traits often found in fake friends. This verse reveals that God Himself defends the innocent and rejects those who betray others behind closed doors. It reassures us that He is our advocate in times of relational injustice.
25. John 2:24-25
“But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person.”
Jesus models divine discernment by withholding trust from those who were not sincere. This verse teaches us to be wise about whom we allow into our inner circle. Even Christ was cautious with those who praised Him superficially, showing us that discernment is not a lack of love, but an act of wisdom.
26. Psalm 12:2
“Everyone lies to their neighbor; they flatter with their lips but harbor deception in their hearts.”
This verse exposes the deceitful nature of flattering speech. Fake friends may speak kindly while plotting harm or hiding malice. God’s Word calls us to truth and sincerity, urging us to guard our hearts and align our words with integrity.
27. Proverbs 26:24-26
“Enemies disguise themselves with their lips, but in their hearts they harbor deceit. Though their speech is charming, do not believe them.”
This proverb warns against being fooled by pleasant words that conceal evil intentions. It teaches that charm can be a disguise, and only discernment reveals true character. We are cautioned not to accept every friendly word at face value, especially when the heart remains hidden.
28. Psalm 28:3
“Do not drag me away with the wicked, with those who do evil—those who speak cordially with their neighbors but harbor malice in their hearts.”
David pleads for deliverance from people who wear masks of kindness while secretly plotting evil. Fake friends are marked by such duplicity. This verse reminds us that God distinguishes between appearances and motives, and He will bring justice.
29. Galatians 2:4
“This matter arose because some false believers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves.”
Paul reveals how even the early church experienced deception and manipulation by those pretending to be allies. This verse reminds us to stay spiritually vigilant, as not everyone who claims to walk with us has our freedom or well-being in mind.
30. Psalm 36:1-3
“There is no fear of God before their eyes. In their own eyes they flatter themselves too much to detect or hate their sin. The words of their mouths are wicked and deceitful.”
This description of the wicked reveals a dangerous combination of pride, self-deception, and manipulation. Fake friends often operate in this spirit—unwilling to confront their sin and quick to mislead others. God’s Word exposes such darkness and calls us to truth and reverence.
31. Psalm 144:8
“Whose mouths are full of lies, whose right hands are deceitful.”
This verse exposes the deceitful nature of those who use words and actions to manipulate others. The imagery of the “right hand”—a symbol of trust—being deceitful shows how fake friends often betray under the guise of loyalty. God’s Word identifies this hypocrisy and calls for purity in both speech and intent.
32. Psalm 109:2-3
“For wicked and deceitful mouths are opened against me, speaking against me with lying tongues. They encircle me with words of hate and attack me without cause.”
David cries out against slander and betrayal. Fake friends often speak lies behind our backs, creating circles of hatred. This verse reminds us that even when unjustly attacked, God hears our cries and will defend those who walk in integrity.
33. Jeremiah 11:19
“I had been like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter; I did not realize that they had plotted against me.”
Jeremiah speaks of betrayal from those who pretended to be peaceful. This verse captures the innocence of one who trusts, unaware of the schemes forming in secret. It’s a powerful reminder to seek God’s discernment when navigating relationships and hidden agendas.
34. Romans 16:17-18
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions… By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.”
Paul warns the church against divisive and manipulative individuals. Fake friends may use flattery and charm to lead others astray, especially the unsuspecting. This passage urges us to be watchful and wise, protecting our spiritual community and personal peace.
35. Psalm 52:2-4
“You practice deceit; your tongue plots destruction; it is like a sharpened razor. You love evil rather than good, falsehood rather than speaking the truth.”
This Psalm denounces those who twist words to harm others. Fake friends may weaponize their speech to tear down rather than build up. God sees and judges such behavior, and His people are called to truth, goodness, and righteousness in relationships.
36. Psalm 7:14-16
“Whoever is pregnant with evil conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment… The trouble they cause recoils on them.”
This poetic imagery shows how evil intentions eventually destroy the person who harbors them. Fake friends may cause temporary pain, but their deceit often turns back upon them. God’s justice ensures that those who scheme will ultimately face the consequences of their actions.
37. Job 19:13-14
“He has alienated my family from me; my acquaintances are completely estranged from me. My relatives have gone away; my closest friends have forgotten me.”
Job’s words reflect the deep loss of trust and support from friends and family. Betrayal often leads to emotional isolation. Yet Job’s enduring faith reminds us that even when abandoned by people, we are never forgotten by God.
38. Lamentations 1:2
“Among all her lovers there is no one to comfort her. All her friends have betrayed her; they have become her enemies.”
Jerusalem is personified as abandoned and betrayed, even by those once close. This verse resonates with the loneliness felt when trusted companions become adversaries. Yet within this lament is a cry to God, showing us that He hears the pain of our betrayal.
39. Proverbs 25:19
“Like a broken tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in a time of trouble.”
This vivid imagery shows the pain of relying on someone untrustworthy. Fake friends may present themselves as helpful, but in crisis, their betrayal becomes obvious. The verse teaches us the importance of discernment and dependable companions who reflect God’s steadfast nature.
40. Psalm 94:18-19
“When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”
Unlike fake friends who abandon in times of need, God’s love remains constant. This verse provides a beautiful conclusion—when human relationships disappoint, God’s comfort and support are sure. His presence brings joy, healing, and assurance in every season of betrayal.
Conclusion
The Bible reminds us that God is both aware of our wounds and prepared to deliver healing, even though navigating the grief of betrayal can leave us feeling alone, perplexed, and defensive. Fake friends may cause us to lose faith in other people, but they do not lessen our worth in God’s eyes. His Word exhorts us to trust Him to tell the truth, create sound boundaries, and walk in discernment. God’s constancy is unwavering, and He offers guidance for creating deeper, more genuine connections even when humans let us down.
Allow these scriptures to fortify your heart and direct your actions as you think about them. Let them serve as a reminder that not all relationships are destined to endure and that God occasionally permits certain people to leave in order to create space for more fulfilling, divinely designed partnerships. He surrounds you with individuals who are true and kind in His exact time. Rely on Him, extend forgiveness when needed, and proceed with grace, knowing that God is your best friend and unwavering guardian.
