Friendship is not to be taken lightly. …especially in the church.
Some friendships are built around family, work, or affinities like music, surfing, gaming or other hobbies and interests.
But there is a special friendship in the family of God. We are held together by our faith in Christ Jesus. The life that we have in Jesus is the life we share together.
This “Christian thing” is to be done with one heart and many people. It is not a solo performance. Christ has called each of us to Himself and fits us together. This means we should think of our brothers and sisters in Christ just as much as we think of ourselves. How do you know if you are? Well, just think of who you spend time praying for!
The Apostle Paul wrote letters to his friends. Even when he was far from them, he encouraged their faith in the Lord, love for one another, and assured them he was praying for them.
To his friends in Rome, he wrote, “I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers.” (Romans 1:8?9)
To the friends in Colossae, Paul gave “thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints.” (Colossians 1:3-4)
Then to the Ephesians, “after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers.” (Ephesians 1:15?16 )
To Timothy whom he longed to see (2 Timothy 1:3-6), the church in Thessalonica (2 Thessalonians 1:11?12), and more.
Everyone who follows Jesus does so in contrast with the world. Your friends in faith are standing out as they stand for Jesus. They need your prayers.
Keep your friends close.
