Tag: Friendship

February 3, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

True Friendship vs. Worldly Favor

Opening Verse

“The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.” – Proverbs 14:20 (KJV)

Introduction

This verse reveals a harsh reality of the world—people often judge others based on their wealth or status. The poor are neglected, while the rich attract many “friends.” But are these true friendships? As believers, we are called to look beyond status and love others as God loves us.

Devotional Story

David had been wealthy most of his life. His house was always filled with people—friends, business partners, and neighbors who enjoyed his generosity. But when a financial crisis struck, everything changed.

One by one, his so-called friends disappeared. Invitations stopped coming. Phone calls went unanswered. The man who once had a crowd around him now sat alone.

One day, an old friend, John, knocked on his door. “I heard what happened,” John said. “I don’t care about your money. I care about you.”

Tears filled David’s eyes. He finally understood what true friendship looked like—not one built on wealth or advantage, but on love and loyalty.

What This Means

Proverbs 14:20 warns us about the fickleness of worldly relationships. Many people will befriend the rich for their own gain, but their loyalty fades when the benefits stop. True friendship isn’t based on wealth but on love, faithfulness, and godly character.

Jesus Himself sought out the poor, the outcasts, and those the world rejected. If we want to follow Him, we must do the same—valuing people for who they are, not for what they have.

Think About This

  • Do you treat people differently based on their wealth or status?
  • Are your friendships based on true love and loyalty, or convenience?
  • How can you be a friend to someone who feels forgotten?

Prayer

Lord, help me to love people as You do—not for what they have, but for who they are. Keep me from judging others based on their status. Let me be a true friend, showing kindness and faithfulness in all my relationships. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” – Proverbs 17:17 (KJV)

December 21, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

A Friend Loves at All Times

Opening Verse:

“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
– Proverbs 17:17 (KJV)

Introduction:

True friendship and family bonds are gifts from God, designed to be a source of love and support through every season of life. This verse reminds us of the enduring nature of genuine love and the purpose of relationships, especially during challenging times.

Devotional Story:

A young woman named Lily faced a season of deep despair after losing her job. Feeling overwhelmed, she isolated herself, convinced that no one cared enough to help. To her surprise, her childhood friend, Grace, showed up at her door with groceries and a listening ear.

“I don’t deserve this,” Lily said through tears. Grace replied, “That’s what friends are for—not just for the good times but to stand with you in the storm.”

Over the next few weeks, Grace’s consistent presence and encouragement reminded Lily that she was not alone. Grace’s unwavering love reflected the truth of Proverbs 17:17, showing that godly friendships are a reflection of God’s steadfast love.

What This Means:

This verse calls us to be dependable and loving friends, embodying the love of Christ. Relationships are not just for joy and laughter but are strengthened through trials and adversity. Whether as a friend or a family member, God equips us to show His love through our commitment and care for others.

Think About This:

  • Do you have a friend or family member going through a difficult time? How can you show love and support?
  • Are you cultivating friendships that honor God and reflect His enduring love?
  • Reflect on John 15:13: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the gift of friendships and family. Teach us to love as You love, standing faithfully with those in need. Help us to be friends who reflect Your kindness and care, and to cherish those You have placed in our lives. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.”
– Galatians 6:2 (KJV)

October 17, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

The Door to God’s Love

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”
– Revelation 3:20 (KJV)

Introduction

Imagine God’s love as a house with an always-open door, inviting everyone in. Sometimes it’s hard to take that step inside, especially if we’re not sure what we’ll find. But when we see people we know living happily in that “house,” it makes us want to join them. The story of Maria and Rosa is a perfect example. It shows us how embracing God’s love can change our lives for the better and how we can be the catalyst for others to do the same.

Devotional Story

Maria and Rosa have been friends for years. They hang out, share laughs, and support each other. Despite their closeness, they lead different lives. Maria is often seen hopping from one party to another, looking for excitement and fun. She thinks that’s where happiness lies.

Rosa, on the other hand, leads a quieter life. She’s always seemed calm, centered, and genuinely happy. And this happiness isn’t tied to her circumstances; she’s like this all the time. Rosa attributes her contentment to her faith in God.

Maria becomes more and more curious about Rosa’s serenity. Why is Rosa so peaceful even when life throws curveballs? Finally, one evening, they sit down for some real talk. Rosa opens up about how her relationship with God has filled her life with a peace that surpasses all understanding.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” – John 14:27 (KJV)

Something clicks for Maria. She feels an internal warmth that she can’t ignore. Inspired by Rosa, Maria decides to explore this avenue. Rosa guides her as she begins praying, attending church, and diving into the Bible for the first time.

Over time, Maria starts experiencing a newfound peace. She feels a deep sense of joy that’s far more satisfying than the temporary thrills she’d been chasing.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28 (KJV)

Conclusion

The story of Maria and Rosa is not just a tale of personal transformation but also a lesson for all of us. God’s love is a choice available to anyone who seeks it. We don’t just have to talk about God’s love; we should strive to live it every day.

When people around us see the happiness and peace radiating from our lives, they might become intrigued, just like Maria did. That’s our chance to share the joy that comes from God’s love, guiding them toward a fulfilling life too.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

 Faith Notes

Being an example of God’s love is like being a lighthouse. We help others find their way through the darkness, leading them toward the open door of God’s love. It doesn’t take a grand gesture to make a difference—sometimes, even a small act of kindness can be the spark that ignites someone else’s faith journey.

So remember, even a little light can shine brightly in a dark world. By simply being who we are, living a life filled with love and care, we can guide others into the comforting, loving arms of God. It’s a responsibility, but also a privilege, to share this gift of divine love and joy.