Proverbs 17:17

 

Last night I had the privilege of being with a group of ladies who I would consider my friends. Women on staff that I work with and wives of the men I work with got together last night for an evening of fun. We each brought something to share and as it turns out, we like spicy. Good food, good friends and good conversation are always a good combination.

 

sunriseGod created us with companionship in mind. Adam was unable to find a suitable companion among the animals God created, so Eve was given to Adam. Together they formed the very first friendship…and God was always invited to their parties!

 

There are some friendships we find throughout Scripture that help us understand friendship and we might even learn how to be better friends.

 

Ruth and Naomi were “in-laws” but their relationship grew into friendship and (Ruth 1:16-17). These two had a beautiful friendship. What love and devotion we see from Ruth toward Naomi.

 

David and Jonathan became friends the moment they met (1 Samuel 18:1-3). We are just naturally attracted to some people. It’s these folks who you probably have long-lasting friendship with.

 

Elijah and Elisha found friendship in the common bond of servanthood (2 Kings 2:2). Serving side by side is a wonderful way to find a new friend. Try it sometime.

 

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego formed a deeper bond in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:19-30). The friends who stick around when you’re going through a difficult time are a treasure.

 

There was a great friendship between Jesus, Lazarus, Mary and Martha. Their relationships were like family (John 11:1-44). Sometimes family can be our best friends…but if you need to step outside that boundary, find friends like Lazarus, Mary and Martha!

 

The Apostle Paul was close friends of Aquila and Priscilla (Romans 16:3-4). This team worked together making tents, but it created a bond between them in their spiritual realm as well. This friendship was based on their relationship with Jesus.

 

Paul also had a deep friendship with Timothy, whom he called “son” (Philippians 2:19-26). Mentorship will allow friendship to blossom. If you aren’t mentoring someone, why not consider it?

 

Jesus has a desire to be our friend as well. We read in John 15:14-15 (NIV) these words of Jesus. “You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”

 

As wonderful as earthly friendships are, my friendship with Jesus must be greater than any earthly friendship. James warned us of what friendship with world means (James 4:4).

 

Friendship. Just another blessing God has given to us. I pray that you are able to find good Christian friends to help you along this journey we call life. But I also pray that your friendship with God is deeper than any you find here on earth.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

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