Love Others

Love Others by Elizabeth-George

Have you ever had a fair-weather friend? A so-called friend who bails on you as soon as something bad happens. They are great friends as long as nothing gets complicated or sticky.

Usually this type of friendship is one-way. As long as you do things their way or agree with them, everything is fine. But the minute you speak up or cross them or try being your own person, that “friend” fades away into the night.

A Good Friend

It’s a challenge to be a good friend. Being loyal means being supportive, being ready to assist and encourage. That’s why loyalty is so essential in any friendship.In the Bible (1 Samuel 20:14-17), David and Jonathan’s friendship was characterized by a solid loyalty even in the midst of adversity.

They loved and encouraged each other in the Lord. They stood together through tough times like a set of identical stone bookends. They met as young men and warriors, and our last glimpse of their faithful friendship is of David mourning Jonathan’s death. Theirs was a to-the-end-no-matter-what friendship. You can read about their friendship in.

Loyal or Fair-Weather?

How does your loyalty rate as a friend? Are you “a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24) or more of a fair-weather friend?

When others think of you, do they think of someone they can trust with their hopes and their troubles? Are you someone they can go to for wise counsel? Are you always open and willing to listen? And do you keep your word? Do you pray for your friends?

When we love people, we can’t help but pray for them because we carry them in our hearts.And when friends are far away and we’re unable to express our love and support personally, we can pray knowing that God hears us.

Jesus prayed for His disciples. Paul prayed for the believers in Philippi, the Christians in Colossae, and for his friends in Ephesus. When it comes to your friends and friendships, there are many reasons to turn to God in prayer! What can you do? 

  • Praise God for your friends. You’ve been blessed with special people in your life. Give thanks for them.  
  • Pray for their spiritual well-being and insights. Paul prayed for believers to have their spiritual eyes opened so they would recognize their spiritual blessings. 
  • Pray for the body of Christ, the church. Pray for your friends to make Jesus the Lord and Savior of their lives. And give thanks for Christ and His leadership. 

Every prayer you lift up for your friends and for others who are placed on your heart reaches God’s ears and heart. Ask Him to use His power, might, strength, and wisdom to help the people you care about. 

It’s so important to have a sister in Christ you can talk with about your faith, sorrows, hopes, doubts, and other needs as a believer. And it’s wonderful to have a friend who will pray for you—and to be the friend who prays!

RESPOND

God, help me to be a good and even better friend to those I know—wise, loyal, and faithful to the end. And Lord, I want to thank You for the friends I have. They are truly a blessing from You! Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES   

One-Minute Inspirations for Women by Elizabeth George—Pick up this sweet devotional for your friends and shop our Valentine's Day sale.

REFLECT

Consider writing out your prayers for your friends and sending them in a text message, email, or card.

REMEMBER

Aim to be a friend who is characterized by solid loyalty, even in the midst of adversity.


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.


Also in From Our Hearts

Choosing the One Thing Needed
Choosing the One Thing Needed

by Elizabeth George September 19, 2023

Today, let’s take a closer look at someone who sat at Jesus’ feet and received His praise. Can you imagine that—receiving God’s praise! The attitude of Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, demonstrated for us the meaning of a heart devoted to God. What did Mary do that moved our Savior to praise her?
Read More
Getting Through Difficult Days
Getting Through Difficult Days

by Elizabeth George September 12, 2023

One of my favorite words in the English language is “bittersweet.” It’s sort of like the well-known announcement, “I’ve got good news and bad news. Which do you want first?” This picturesque term always reminds me that many occurrences in life fall simultaneously into the glad/sad category, bringing forth both emotions at once.

Read More
Times of Suffering
Times of Suffering

by Elizabeth George September 05, 2023

“I’m done. This is just too much. I can’t believe this is really God’s plan for my life!” This is not an uncommon confession among Christian women. But it is true: suffering is part of this life. Every one of us will face times of trial and loss. Job’s lament is a testimony to the physical, moral, and spiritual suffering he experienced.
Read More