Two-minute read.
“I got you, Beth!”
One text I will never forget came on a dark day in my life. Sadness overwhelmed me, depression called my name, and I had no energy to do things I needed to do. So I reached out to a loyal everyday friend and told her I needed prayer. Within seconds, she texted me back those four words, and immediately, I started to rise out of the darkness. Knowing my lifelong friend had my back gave me strength. When I couldn’t pray, she prayed for me, and together, we persevered through another day.
Some people think the number of our friendships matters more than the quality, but one good, faithful friend far outweighs ten acquaintances. For years, I played in local tennis leagues against a myriad of people whom I considered friends. Since I stopped playing, I rarely talk to any of them; our connection has ended. But a few have remained close, staying in touch, even though I no longer see them on the courts. Good friends have staying power; they don’t vanish when a season ends or difficulties come.
As Christ’s followers, we have a friend above all the rest, Jesus. Developing a relationship with Him and spending time with the Savior daily will draw you into a friendship like no other. Getting to know Christ through scripture and prayer will help you develop a support network of friendships. God created us to live in community, and He shows us how to do it when we follow Jesus.
My D-group, as our church calls its discipleship groups, consists of several women who have become dear friends in a short amount of time. Each week we gather and study God’s word together, share prayer requests, and life. In the few months we’ve known each other, we’ve shared struggles and joys that have knit us closer, all because our love of Jesus bonds us, the best friend we all share.
Becoming like Jesus will make you a friend to all. The more you get to know the Savior and apply His teachings to your life, the better your relationships will become. One day at a time, one year at a time, become a loyal, everyday friend. When someone reaches out in need, reply with three simple words, “I got you.”
Journal Questions:
Who comes to mind as a loyal, everyday friend and why?
How does your friendship with Jesus continue to grow and flourish?
In what ways can you become a better friend?
Friendship Application:
Follow Jesus’s example and become an everyday friend to others.
Beth, this message really touched my heart. It spoke to a place that I had been questioning for a few months. I’m in a better place right now, but still seem to have a feeling of being abandoned. I’m coming out of the cave, is my daily saying for weeks now. And I am!
Praying for you Carol!