SEEKING: Christian Friends

“A sweet friendship refreshes the soul” (Proverbs 27:9).

Uplifting, Christian friends are a gift from God that enhances our lives. Shared values, goals, and passions unite people, and friends who share our faith can provide such deep and meaningful support. These friends can act as the hands and feet of Jesus when we need them the most, covering our families in prayer, sending well-timed texts when we’re feeling down, and celebrating our blessings and achievements. Connecting with fellow believers brings us great joy!

Does this mean ditching all our friends who are not believers? Not at all! Not everyone shares the same beliefs and viewpoints. We are called by God to love everyone and show them the love of Jesus. We may be the only voice they hear for God and His grace and love are available to everyone!

Friendship between believers, on the other hand, helps us grow and reinforces our beliefs. God calls fellow believers to point one another to Him, as the One who can guide us and meet our every need. We can help each other grow more like Jesus: “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17). He asks us to gently and lovingly confront one another when sin or error is interfering with God’s best for our lives. Proverbs 27:6 says, “Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.” These types of friendships offer encouragement and gentle reminders that keep us on the right path.

For many of us, it isn’t easy to seek out, find, and cultivate friendships, but God knows what we need. When we ask Him, He will make a way for these gifts. Small groups at church are one of the many places God can connect us to Christ-centered friendships. As we allow God to guide and direct us in finding and choosing our closest connections, we will experience the joy and abundance He has for us in the area of friendship!

Guiding Points:

Call to Action: As you pray for God to order your steps regarding friendships, here are some verses that will encourage you. When you step out, God will meet you!

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:12-13).

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1).

“A friend loves at all times” (Proverbs 17:17).

“Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Prayer: Father, we thank You for the opportunity to come before You today and ask for Your direction with our friendships. We pray for ALL our friends to have a personal relationship with You. Please open doors of communication that allow us to share Your love and your word with them. Help us to be good witnesses, uplifting others and exalting You in all we do. We also pray, Lord, that You will order our steps in finding Christian connections that will grow into deep and meaningful friendships. We desire the blessing of sincere friendship with like-minded people who love You! Set our feet on the path of Your will and give us the courage to step out on faith. Thank You for all you do for us! In Jesus’ precious name, we pray, Amen.

Final Thought: Be the kind of friend you want in others!