“Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Eccl. 4:9-10; “Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green.” Ps. 92:14; Encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” 1 Thess. 5:11
Lord Jesus, thank you for the friends you’ve woven into my heart and story. The thought of growing older without close heart-friends—grace-friends, has never been scarier. I see way too many old, lonely, regret-crusted people walking around—especially men.
Thank you for friends who make me laugh, play, wonder, and explore. Thank you for friends who won’t let me default to shame, self-sufficiency, excuse-making, and busyness.
It’s a gift to have friends whose need to be impressive, smart, or “together,” have been replaced with Gospel-intelligence, humble self-awareness, the freedom to boast in weakness. None of us need “friends” like Job had—those more likely to give correction than affection; and “verses” quicker than tears and grace.
Lord Jesus, thank you for being a Savior of sinners and a friend of sinners. We would despair if that was not so. May your love, grace, and kindness shape all our friendships, and all our “friend-ing.” So very Amen we pray, in your tender and triumphant name.
