Friendships are among our most valuable assets. Acquiring quality companions, who laugh with us in good times and stand by us during trials, requires shared commitment and an investment of time and energy.
We must be transparent and be honest with friends and encourage them to be truthful in return. To preserve a healthy bond, we can’t hide hurts or feelings of rejection they may have caused. Transparency that is tied to accountability can also help make each individual a better person. A solid relationship allows each party to gently point out errors in the other’s life and offer loving correction.
Genuine friendship takes time to develop. We must be willing to put aside other obligations and give priority to moments spent together. A generous portion of our time with each other should be spent talking about our thoughts and desires and also asking questions to prompt our friend to open up. This type of conversation allows a glimpse into the other person’s heart and mind.
Everyone likes to feel appreciated. Expressing thanks when friends are helpful will remind them that we’re grateful to have them in our life. We affirm our love when we communicate how much we enjoy a certain aspect of their personality or remember an occasion that’s special to them.
Being a good friend is a way to serve the Lord. He designed us to be in relationship with others, so we should give our best to every companion God places in our life.
Ephesians 6:7-8 (NIV) 7Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, 8because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free
5 comments:
As friends to all of you, I encourage/challenge you all to recommit to starting your day focused on Christ. I also challenge you to commit yourself to investing in another brother in Christ, as Christ himself did for us. As men we tend to withdraw during times of trouble or when we are struggling and it is the time we need another brother the most.
Father God, lift up these men today. Give them all a heart for you and those around them. Thank you for these guys and the friendship I have with them.
In Christ,
cas
Great reminder, Clark. I am the worst about the out of sight out of mind mentality. Thanks for that prayer. I pray that I do reach out this week.
Great reminder, Clark. I am the worst about the out of sight out of mind mentality. Thanks for that prayer. I pray that I do reach out this week.
Friends are truly a special gift from God.
LT
Indeed, I believe there may be nothing better on this earth than a few close friendships. When you trace your steps through the friends you have made over the years, you will find God at every turn.
tba
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