Blessed Friends
by Mike Killebrew
The word “blessed” is easy to use, it is a popular phrase in my vocabulary. I hear others use it frequently. Unfortunately, in some instances I think we misuse it. It’s an easy word to use when things go our way, as though it is a synonym for success or material prosperity. Sometimes using the word blessed is a humble way to brag about our circumstances. A search of #Blessed on social media quickly reveals the distorted use.
The word blessed has robust intended meaning, some definitions include phrases like, “made holy; or divinely or supremely favored; fortunate.” Another definition I found unpacks the Greek word makarioi which means to be “fully satisfied, regardless of the circumstances.” Scripture shows that blessing can be used to describe anything that God gives that brings us full satisfaction in him.
One area of my life that I can say with certainty that I have experienced blessing is that of friendships. I have been the recipient of some blessed friendships that have brought tremendous satisfaction in the Lord and moved me further towards holiness. I could tell stories and share moments from both my recent and distant memories that point towards strong friendships. God has gifted me with friends that have been instrumental in giving me greater satisfaction in Him. I have friends who have been willing to join me in life, regardless of the circumstances, who have been supportive and loving enough to ask me difficult questions.
As I reflect on those blessed friendships, I’m struck with the realization that Jesus is the common denominator. I’d also add the Church to that math equation. I’ve had friends outside the walls of the Church, but my blessed friendships are because of Jesus and his Church and the intentional community found there.
I’ll share some thoughts on why we need to pursue blessed friendships and some reasons why the Church needs to teach and emphasize the importance of friendships.
Friendships are biblical.
Proverbs 18:24 highlights the significance of having a friend who sticks closer than a brother. This biblical wisdom encourages us to seek and cherish friendships that are deep, enduring, and rooted in a genuine connection with others. By exploring more passages such as David and Jonathan's friendship (1 Samuel 18-20), we can further reinforce the idea that blessed friendships are a scripturally supported concept. There are many examples of strong biblical friendships: Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha, Naomi and Ruth, Jesus and the twelve, Paul and Timothy and others.
Friendships improve the church experience.
In the context of the Church, friendships play a crucial role in enhancing the overall church experience. They provide a sense of belonging, support, and encouragement. When individuals within a church community form meaningful connection, they can engage in deeper fellowship, accountability, and spiritual growth. Acts 2:42-47 offers an example of the early Christian community, where they devoted themselves to fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer, creating a strong foundation of interconnected relationships.
Stronger friendships will have a positive impact on culture.
Strong and blessed friendships extend beyond individual lives and have the potential to positively impact culture. When friendships are rooted in love, respect, and shared values, they become a witness to the world. Jesus emphasized the importance of love and unity among believers in John 13:34-35, stating that their love for one another would be a testament to their discipleship. By cultivating blessed friendships, Christians can demonstrate the transformative power of God's love to a world in need. We can have a positive impact on our culture with stronger friendships.
The foundation of a healthy marriage starts with friendship.
The church needs healthier marriages. Marriages thrive when they are built on a foundation of friendship. By nurturing a deep friendship with our spouse, we establish a bond that goes beyond romantic feelings. Friendship within marriage involves qualities such as trust, communication, mutual respect, and shared values.
In Genesis 12:2 God tells Abram, “I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so be a blessing.” This text is the beginning of a gift to all of humanity, from God to us, through the person of Jesus Christ. He also charges Abram with the statement a verse later that “all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” This is a calling not only for Abram but for us as well. If we are still breathing, we have a calling to be a blessing. We can partially fulfill that calling by not only having blessed friendships but by being a blessed friend. Let’s honor God by seeking to be a biblical friend!
