02/02/2024
Finding Good Friends.
True friends are a gift from God and are to be cherished. This journey here on earth is a difficult one and it wasn’t God’s plan for anyone to go through life alone. That’s why He created man with the capacity to love. There are many examples of true friendships in the Bible, such as David and Jonathan, Moses and Aaron, Elijah and Elisha, Paul and Timothy, and many others. Even Jesus had close friends, such as Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. When Lazarus became sick, the first thing his sisters did was to reach out to their Best Friend, Jesus. God longs to transform you into a friend that loves as He loves, and will be there for you in the good times and the bad. Be a friend like Jesus - someone who will never abandon you even when you make poor decisions. God’s friendship with you is not based upon the expectation that you’ll be perfect. The Bible says in Proverbs 17:17, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” When someone opens up their heart and offers friendship, there is a responsibility that comes with being a “good friend.” True friendship is based on a firm foundation of respect, honesty, loyalty, and love. Romans 12:10 tells us, "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." Being friends with someone doesn’t give you or them the license to be rude, mean, or disrespectful. Nor is it okay for someone to mistreat you just because you love them. Pray for godly friends who will push you to be better. No drama or negativity. No jealousy or hate. Just higher goals and motivation. Simply bringing out the absolute best in each other. Evaluate the friends in your life. Are they a positive influence or are they bringing you down? Most importantly, are they “godly friends” who are bringing you closer to Jesus? Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Job 6:14, Proverbs 18:24, Proverbs 12:26