Are You That Friend?

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” - John 15:13


Yesterday we talked about what a true friend is, and the value of having even one. A true friend will, as John says, “lay down his life for his friends.” As Proverbs 17 says, they are “born for adversity.” Then we see in Proverbs 18 that, “there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

Finding these friends is nothing short of a miracle. In a “me first” world, there are not many out there who can say they practice the verses above. But the question today isn’t, “Have you found one,” but “Are you one?” Are you that type of friend?

Are you the friend who would lay down your life for someone? This does not have to mean literally. But would you put your friends before yourself? Would you give up what you want to do for them? Would you sacrifice your time to be there for them through their struggle?

Are you a friend “born for adversity?” Anyone can be a friend when everything is going well. When stars make it big, it is amazing how many people reach out, telling them “I always believed in you.” This is because they want a cut of the pie. They want a part of the riches, perks, and experiences the star is about to receive. But what about when they go through the tough times? When they doubt themselves? When they are caught in addiction or sin? Are you there for your friends through adversity?

Lastly, do you “stick closer than a brother?” Through good times, through bad times, when so much is going on in your world, can your friends count on you? Do they know you are someone who will always be by their side no matter what?

Everyone is looking for a friend like this, but very few practice being that friend themselves. This is the type of friend God has called you and me to be. Where could you improve as a friend today? Let these verses challenge you to be the friend God has called each of us to be and watch how God will bless those around you!