“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17
Sometimes life can get us down. However, this morning I heard from friends of over thirty years, relationships which have endured many trials and triumphs. They both brought great consolation and rejoicing to my heart as I thought of these dear ones who have been faithful friends for all our adult lives.
In recent weeks I have been to a funeral at the church where I grew up and was married. God called my family elsewhere many years ago. The change left broken relationships, but over the years the differences faded, and those old friends now welcome us when we meet.
I have sat with an old family friend and tried to bring a bit of encouragement as she goes through a difficult trial. I have been blessed to hear that a poem, written in my own time of difficulty, brought comfort to my sister and a friend in their own current trials. I will have lunch with two friends who now worship at another church, but rejoice in the common ground which continues to hold us close. Jesus is the great common denominator for His followers.
Life is full of changes, but our hearts always need friends. God’s word is a guidebook to successful relationships. In the body of Christ, there are relationships which last for a season and some that last for a lifetime, but we will all be together in eternity where earthly differences no longer matter.
An old adage says, “Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver, and the other gold.” Never neglect to pray for and be thankful for your friendships. Do your best to keep them intact, even when differences of opinion occur.
Thank God for your best friends, the ones you run to knowing they will always be there, the ones who know you so well that you don’t have to explain details, just fill in recent events. Maintain relationships where you are the encourager and helper to a lonely soul with few to lean on in times of need. Keep a few friendships with non-believers, that you might be a witness in love.
Thank God for the friends He has given you. Do your best to show love at all times, especially when adversity comes. Seek to settle differences without severing relationships.
Copyright by Norma Gail Thurston-Holtman & 2MefromHim Ministries, 2011. All rights reserved.
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