ReflectionsShembull

Word of the Day: Friend

Definition: One attached to another by affection or esteem; acquaintance (Merriam-Webster, 2015).

Many of us have it all wrong when we define what a friend is. Due to being creatures of habit, we base the definition on our personal experiences. While it is true that everybody will not be our friend, we have One who is there with us in all seasons. “One who has reliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). Jesus is our friend that takes it to a completely higher level. He calls out our name to his Father, covers us in ways unimaginable to the human’s capability of thinking and most of all, He gave His life for us. Even when we haven’t been that great of a friend to Jesus, He is faithful to us. Friends like this come few and far between, but it is a blessing when you come across one. Think about your relationship with Jesus. Do you check on Him regularly? Do you thank Him for all that He has done and continues to do? It is so easy to set high standards on how people should treat us, but are we treating others the same or better? For this reason, it is so important for us to forgive our friends.  

Your real friends will have your back, let you know when you are wrong and if they drop the ball somewhere, are big enough to take accountability and correct their hurtful behavior (which should definitely be reciprocated). After all, it is unrealistic to think that they will never hurt you or you will never hurt them. “Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses” (Proverbs 27:5-6). Choose your friendships carefully as well because behaviors are learned and influential. Let your friendship with Jesus be a great model to follow. If you find that you can’t express yourself, be yourself with a person, or if you are not growing together, it is most likely not a compatible match. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).

Action: Be a friend that loves unconditionally, especially during tumultuous times.

Prayer: Dear God, thank You so much for Your son Jesus; my true friend. Please help me to become that kind of friend to one another and move in love, grace and forgiveness. Thank You, Jesus for loving me. I will strive daily to become the friend to You as You are to me. In Your name I pray. Amen.

Affirmation: I will be the kind of friend that the Bible speaks of.