A friend. Something everyone needs. Someone we can confide in, someone to enjoy life’s joyful things with. In times of sorrow, someone to come alongside us to help bear the burden. 

The sons of Korah who were spared no doubt had to lean on their companions after their parents were swallowed up and buried alive. Their hearts separated them from the path of their father, as it wasn’t filled with bitterness toward the Lord. But now there was a new life, a path they had to forge on their own since their father couldn’t lead them. They had to seek godly guidance elsewhere. The proverb above said that friends are there to help in times of trouble, and that is exactly what the sons needed. 

For those of us today who are walking on a path not first blazed by our parents, we too need the godly wisdom, encouragement, and help from friends called apart by God. Our Savior showed us what a friend is, what we need to have and what we need to be for others. We need friends to speak life over us when we feel like it’s over, just like Jesus did for his friend Lazarus. We need friends to pray for our faith, just like Jesus did for his friend Peter. We need friends who pray for our freedom from evil powers, like Jesus did for Mary Magdalene. We need friends to cover us in the tangible love of God, making us feel loved in their presence, just like Jesus did for his friend John, who’s identity became “the one Jesus loves.” 

Jesus is the same friend to us today as he was to the people above. What a friend we have in Jesus. The one who renews us, saves us, changes us, teaches us, helps us. The one who shows us how to be a friend to others from the perfect example he set. Today, if you don’t know Jesus as a friend, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal that to you. And ask the Lord to send you friends who build up your faith. Friends who are there when the path you’re walking on feels lonely. Friends who will witness the work of the Lord in your life, who see the brokenness you come from yet hear your song of praise, just like the friends of the sons of Korah would have witnessed.

Querido Padre Celestial,

Thank You for being the perfect Friend, faithful, present, and full of grace. In moments of loneliness or pain, remind me that You are near. Help me recognize and treasure the friends You've placed in my life, and teach me to be the kind of friend who uplifts others, speaks life, and points them back to You. Surround me with those who build my faith and help me stay the course, even when the path is hard. Thank You for walking with me, always. In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

 

Are you cultivating relationships that strengthen your walk with Christ? Reach out to a godly friend and thank them for their support, or if you’re in need of one, pray and intentionally seek out a Christ-centered community. And above all, lean into friendship with Jesus, talk to him, walk with him, and let his love teach you how to love others well.