Friend
Friendship: the emotions or conduct of friends; the state of being friends.
friends: a person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, typically exclusive of sexual or family relations
A couple of days ago I was blessed to have a retirement tea party given to me by my co-workers. I had actually told them that I did not want a party, but I am so glad they insisted! At one point during the party individuals started to give speeches and most of them talked about being friends or having a friendship.
When I sat down to write the word friendship came up again in my spirit. I thought okay this is at the center of my mind this is what the Holy Spirit is directing me to write about. In the paragraph above, I listed the definition of both friend and friendship. The more I meditated on the definition of friendship it struck me that friendships are developed by two complete strangers. Our marriages and families are developed by strangers coming together and learning to love one another. We were taught how to show ourselves friendly as young toddlers. Our parents taught us to say, “Hello!” and to be kind.
The only friend we will ever meet who we will not be a stranger to us is Jesus. He knows us by name and He created us for this specific time and season. We are ordained to be here on earth right now and to meet those around us. It is unfortunate that in the past we did not know Jesus and we treated Him as a stranger. However, Jesus was always present; like a friend sitting on the sidelines waiting for us to invite Him into our lives. He wanted to share with us the mutual affection and bond that would give our lives an amazing journey.
Friendship is an emotional relationship between individuals who are friends. Scripture says
There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24, NLT). We are put here on earth to love one another and to develop friendships that will allow those who are lost to see Jesus through us. A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another (John 13:34,ESV).
When I accepted my position at the California Department of Education, the last thing on my mind was making friends. My focus was to do a great job and receive a paycheck so that I could help provide for my family. Over the years I have come to learn through the Holy Spirit that my job was never about a paycheck, but an assignment from God to let His light shine through me so He could show the world that He is their friend!
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13, ESV).
Father,
Help us to remember that our assignment along with doing our job is to let others see you through us and that you are their friend. We thank you that even in the difficult times you are with us; and we are not to be dismayed, for you are our God; You will strengthen us, You will help us, and uphold us with Your righteous right hand. To God be glory and praise Amen!
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
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