Date:
June 6, 2024Sideways Grace
More often than not we don’t know what causes people to act how they do. That’s why it’s always appropriate to extend grace. Always.
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Friendship
We all make various acquaintances throughout our lives—people who come into our circle for a season and then move on. With some, we’re content to let them go. But with others, we’re not. Once an acquaintance turns into true friendship, we hold on more tightly to that friend. A friend is a favoured companion for whom we feel affection or esteem. Why is a friend favoured? Most likely, it has much to do with how we feel when we’re with him or her. A friend accepts us as we are and is patient with our faults. A friend points out our strengths and rejoices at our successes. A friend’s presence and listening ear fill a void in us and give our lives a sense of validation and greater depth.
Do you have such a friend? Do you know how to be that friend? These resources can help you recognize the need for friendship and develop the attributes that will make you a treasured friend to others.
A friend is always loyal,
and a brother is born to help in time of need.
(Proverbs 17:17 NLT)
Love is a More Excellent Way
Love is patient and kind, it’s not jealous, it doesn’t brag, love isn’t proud. Love never gives up on people—it never quits.
Five Characteristics of a Good Friend
In a crisis a true friend cares enough to visit without an invitation, is sympathetic and comforting, expresses deep feelings, isn’t turned off by unpleasant sights, and says very little.
Character and Honour
Caring for others should always be the basis of any confrontation. When you have another’s best interests at heart you’re motivated by love instead of anger.
Who Gets the Credit?
When you care about others you discover it doesn’t matter who gets the credit. What matters is you help others reach their highest good.
The A-B-Cs of Love
I accept you, I believe you’re valuable, I care when you hurt, I desire what’s best for you, and I erase all offences. Chuck Swindoll calls this the A-B-Cs of love.
Running Red Lights
We all face temptation to do things we shouldn’t—even pastors! That’s why accountability is so important. Friends help us live wisely before God.
Going the Distance
Our world has become impersonal—and we’ve become uninvolved and reluctant to serve others. And yet, it’s in helping others we find the key to a fulfilled life.
Assimilation
A sermon will not meet our needs—we need someone to hear, someone to feel the blows in our life, someone to help us cushion the heavy weight when it drops down on us. We need to assimilate into the body of Christ.
A Place of Refuge
When you take time to listen to others without criticizing or lecturing you’re providing a safe and honest environment. We all need a place of refuge.
