Got Friends?
Today’s Truth
“And so I am giving a new commandment to you now – love each other just as much as I love you. Your strong love for each other will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34-35
Friend to Friend
We all need friends. In fact, we were created to need each other. In his book, “The Broken Heart”, Dr. James J. Lynch shows that lonely people live significantly shorter lives than the general population. Yes, there are different levels of friendships, friends we see occasionally and friends with whom we share everything. There are even different seasons of friendships. But at the core of every healthy friendship is a giving heart.
I often hear the words, “I just don’t have any friends!” In many cases, I suspect the reason is that people are looking for what they can get out of a relationship instead of what they can give to that relationship.
Have you ever considered the idea that friendships are primarily opportunities for giving? Jesus Christ powerfully illustrated this truth when He came to earth, lived as man, died on the cross and rose from the dead – all because of love, all because He wanted to give to those He loved. And God is calling us to share that same love with others.
Valentine's Day dawned, and
Finally, when she heard their voices, she looked out the window to see the children laughing and having the best time. As usual, there was
And so it is when God and His love are at the center of our friendships. Does the world know we are His disciples by the way we love each other – by our friendships?
Let’s Pray
Father, thank You for the miracle of Your great love that is powerfully at work in me. Help me to respond to that love by loving others. Help me to be a better friend. Transform my heart and then use me to give Your love away in friendship. I want to obey You in every area of life. I pray that my friendships reflect Your love, encourage others and please You.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Now It’s Your Turn
- Make a list of your five best friends.
- Choose one action that you can put into practice for each friend.
- Keep a journal and record the changes and blessings that these choices bring.
- Ask God to bring new friendships into your life. Loneliness is one of the greatest battles we face and one of Satan’s favorite areas of attack. Don’t let anyone rob you of the joy of having friends who love you and are willing to stand with you – no matter what. They are out there! Don’t give up until you find them!
More from the Girls
Gwen, Sharon and I want to wish you a very Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you and to us, you are very special. Thank you for allowing us to come into your home each day, sharing our lives with you. And thank you for your many emails, sharing your lives with us. That is what
Want a great resource for handling those difficult relationships? Visit my new website at www.marysoutherland.com and check out the Book/CD Set now available. “Sandpaper People” and “The Power of Forgiveness” offer powerful, practical truths about how to deal with difficult people and how to forgive when you really don’t want to!
Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Girlfriends in God
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com
Originally published Thursday, 14 February 2008.