A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Prov. 17:17 (NIV)
When we came into Macedonia, we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn—conflicts on the outside, fears within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus. 2 Cor. 7:5-6 (NIV)
But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today”. Heb. 3:13 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, on this April Wednesday, we’re greatly grateful for the friends you’ve woven into our lives and stories—the brothers and sisters who pursue, pray, play with us, and offer a redemptive presence in every season of life.
We are wealthy beyond measure to have friends who remind us of the gospel and help us get a better perspective when we forget Who you are, and who we are in Jesus. It’s an incredible blessing to have friends who know how to confront us, and “call us out” from self-pity and whining, unto faith, hope, and love.
Make me the same kind of friend, Father, especially in this next season of life. Whether you give me ten or fifteen more years of life, I want to finish my days in this world as an encourager and comforter—as a conduit of your mercy and grace. I don’t need any more stuff, and I certainly don’t need to get busier. As I preach it, so may I live it: “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself in love” (Gal. 5:6).
Help each of us get better at offering presence than suggesting answers. May we give our friends more tears than advice, more listening than “fixes,” and more of our hearts and time.
All of this, and so much more, you freely give us in the gospel, Father. We are incalculably rich because of the way you love us in Jesus—the friend of sinners, the lover of our souls, our glorious Savior. Love through us, to your glory. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ kind and powerful name.
