I had an experience recently that once again blessed me tremendously. Friends showed me care, compassion and love. I had missed a church service due to another family engagement. The next day my friends called to make sure everything was ok. The following day, other friends made sure we knew that we were missed. I began to think how much I appreciated the friends in my life.
The Scripture says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. ” (Proverbs 17:17, NIV84) Our friends walk through the difficult times with us. Our friends love us when we feel good and they encourage us when we feel down. Our friends become life companions with whom we travel across mountains and through valleys.
Our friends will speak into our lives. Our friends will point out flaws in us. Our friends can speak into our lives because they love us. “Wounds from a friend can be trusted.” (Proverbs 27:6, NIV84) Our friends will remind us of God’s promises for us. Our friends will encourage us to walk into God’s purposes for our lives. Our friends motivate us to greatness. “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel. ” (Proverbs 27:9, NIV84)
Our friends become our strength when we are weak. “If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! ” (Ecclesiastes 4:10, NIV84)
Paul addressed many times his letters to his “dear friends”. The word for friend is the Greek word that means “brother”. In the church we are brothers and sisters in the Lord. We are also friends.
I have found that as I have learned to open my heart to others, friendship formed. The depth of friendship depends upon me. The more I share myself and give myself to others, the more open I become to receive from others.
Think of the people around you today. Can you be a friend to someone? Can you share someone’s pain? Can you bring a word of encouragement? Can you call and see how they are doing?
