Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Growing up, I had quite a few playmates, but it wasn’t until high school that I started to realize what real friendship was and how valuable it could be. I developed many acquaintances during those years, but as I look back, one friend in particular, John, was the epitome of what the Bible says in Ecclesiastes.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
⁹ Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. ¹⁰ If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.

In the weekend message, we heard that we’re not meant to do life alone, and having friends is the best way to avoid that. But what makes a good friend?

John and I spent hours sharing our thoughts and problems, and even some of our deepest, darkest secrets with each other, knowing that each could be trusted. Friends reach out and connect in a consistent manner.

John was supportive in my endeavors, and I was supportive in his. Friends help each other prosper and enjoy life.

There were a few times when we caused a little mischief, but we knew neither would tell on the other and neither would let it go so far as to become serious trouble. Friends keep each other safe and provide space to be vulnerable and held accountable.

Sadly, John moved to Texas, and our close friendship faded away. As an adult, I have a much better understanding of what good friendships need, and fortunately, I have developed my greatest and best friendship with my loving wife, Michelle. Together, we have built a relationship that is everything I had with John but goes so much deeper.

Ecclesiastes 4:11
Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone?

Michelle’s life and sincere love for others warms my heart. We truly see and are seen by each other. We know each other and are known. We love each other and are loved.

Is it always easy? Definitely not! There are many times I frustrate her, and occasionally, she pings my pet peeve radar as well. But overall, it is wonderful and worth every bit of effort it takes to maintain our relationship.

The bottom line is a life-giving friendship takes deliberate investment.

Questions:
Are you deliberately investing in your friends?

Do your friendships fulfill Ecclesiastes 4:9-11?

Next Steps:
Examine your friendships and the investment you are making in them. What investments can you make this week?

Explore what else the Bible says about friendships. Proverbs 17:17, 18:24, and 27:6 and 27:17 are great places to start!

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I know that we are not meant to do life alone, and I am thankful that you have given me the opportunity to develop friendships here on earth. Help me to invest deliberately and wisely in them. Help me to remember that to have good friends, I must be a good friend. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:

Proverbs 17:17 ESV
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Today’s post was written by Ned Miller, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.