God-Given Friends
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2
Have you ever felt alone? Like you were living on your own isolated island of hurt? I think it’s safe to say that we have all been there at one time or another. Life has a way of dishing out some challenging moments. It’s really not a surprise. The devil’s mission is to steal, kill, and destroy in our lives (John 10:10). However, the rest of that verse says that Jesus came to give us life and life more abundantly.
Part of that abundant life that He gives us is through the gift of godly friendships. I am so thankful for the friendships I have had over the years and how God has brought those friendships into my life. There have also been times in my life when godly friendships have been hard to come by. Friends are one of the biggest blessings in our lives. They help lift the heaviness of a situation through sincere prayer, a hug, a shared cup of coffee, or a needed laugh.
However, friendships don’t just happen – they need to be cultivated. I think the most challenging part for me in developing friendships is opening myself to someone else. It takes courage to let your guard down and let someone have a glimpse into your soul. Allowing someone to help lift a burden you have is a humbling experience because you have to admit that you can’t do it yourself.
That’s the point, really. God gave us the gift of friendships because we weren’t supposed to be alone. We need each other to help maneuver the sometimes rocky terrain of life. It’s often a friend who knows just the right thing to say or when to say nothing at all.
I encourage you to tell a friend you are thankful for them today. Give them a call, a text, or maybe schedule a much-needed coffee date. Whatever you do, treasure those friendships in your life today.
Dear Lord, thank you for the friends you have given me. Show me how to cultivate those friendships and show your love to them today. Amen.