“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.” -Proverbs 27:9
Friendship is a beautiful relationship. It allows us to share our most deep and vulnerable times with one another. God placed friendships in our lives, whether seasonal or forever, to help us navigate the world. As we get deeper into our friendships, we realize that every friend has a unique and special placement within our space. Friendships allow us to fill in the gaps of different perspectives and experiences through the eyes of one another. Community and support are essential for our wellbeing and growth. Being filled with people who bring you joy, comfort and love are in alignment with the foundation of Christ. It is so important to have friends that will uplift and pray with and for you; friends that will help you through the deep places in the valleys of life. Also, ones that will cheer you on with all of their might as you win and succeed. God created a beautiful bond between the wonderful people in our lives we get to call friends.
Having friends that are rooted in Jesus is necessary. Your friends have an influence over the most vulnerable and sensitive moments that are shared. Friends that will speak life into you and speak the word over you, know the significance of a Godly relationship. Elevation of your friendship with the Lord is an important factor. Having the deep and hard conversations about our suffering and struggles in the Lord shows the intention God had in mind for us when He created community. Friendship brings out the best in one another. You are constantly learning and growing together through different phases of life. You see each other through the best and worst of times. What a special place friendship holds in our lives.
One relationship in the bible that pours out the beauty of friendship is the connection and companionship between Naomi and Ruth. After Naomi suffered unimaginable losses, Ruth decided that she would stay with her. Their friendship was rooted in God’s faithfulness and compassion. They sacrificed love for one another. That is the beauty that we see directly displayed through Jesus towards us. Additionally, the friendship between Elijah and Elisha sprouts one of concern and consideration. As Elijah was going to Bethel, Elisha quickly insisted that he will never leave his side. Elisha saw the goodness of God in the life of Elijah. The power that lies within our friendships through Christ is an unstoppable force. We were never meant to do life alone. What a friend we have in Jesus.
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” -John 15:12-14
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” -Proverbs 27:17
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” -Matthew 18:20
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