Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV

God given friends share the love of Christ. They lead us in the right direction. They strengthen us in time of need and remind us why they care. They always build us up. Friends find the way to remind us laughter is good for the soul. They help us find strength from God’s greatness. Friends are treasured gifts. God nurtures our souls as we love one another.

Friends pray for us. And even though we may not hear their timely requests, God strengthens us. He hears their pleas in our behalf and humbles our hearts with hope. Friends pray with us! In moments of tender exchange, Jesus draws us closer than before as we share the space of His holiness. He hears what is spoken from the heart.

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20 NIV

“Friends are the family we find along the way.” We all need the support of a loving friend; a treasured confidant with a listening ear and a heart of love for Jesus. Now more than ever, we need to know how it feels to love one another. We are all in this world together. Much can be accomplished if we share our burdens, joys, and humbly allow God to connect us with those who will make a difference in our lives.

How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity. Psalm 133: 1 The Bible has something to say about love. John 15:12 says “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” John 15:17 says “This is my command: Love each other.” Jesus is not merely asking us to love. He is commanding us to LOVE one another.

“Make new friends and keep the old. One is silver and the other gold” are words of truth. God has blessed us with friends from the past and He will continue to bless us with new friends in the future. They are precious gifts; treasures of the heart. God given connections make our lives so much more meaningful and good. Let us give thanks for the friends in our lives. Truly they are a blessing!

Dear God, Thank you for friends. Thank you for joy that comes from those who want to share Your love. Help us reach the heart of others and demonstrate the compassionate love of Christ. Show us how to encourage one another. Thank you for those who care for us and nurture our walk with Jesus. We will find joy as we love one another, welcome the gift of friendship and find peace from the blessing of a grateful heart. Thank you, Lord. Thank you! Amen