True Friendship

Jesus was also betrayed in friendship. His disciples left Him, Peter denied knowing Him, John kept quiet and Judas betrayed Him with a kiss of friendship. He forgave them, and forgives us daily. He understands the hurt of betrayal in friendship and can therefore help you.

Matthew 26:31 " Then Jesus said to them, ' Tonight you will all desert me. For it is written in the Scriptures that God will smite the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered."

Mark 14:66-72. Matthew 26:48-56, 70

Lord, teach me today, to forgive the way You do. Even your best friend may hurt you so deep, that forgiveness may seem impossible. Take that hurt to the Lord. Talk to Him. He will help you to forgive. People closest to us, hurt us the most. Sometimes they hurt us, without even knowing it.

Know this, Jesus is and will always be your best friend. He doesn't ask the impossible, will not lead you on a road which He hasn't already walked, He'll never forsake you. His line is never busy and your calls are always welcome. He will never turn you away.

Knock and He will open the door. He is wise and always willing to share His knowledge and advice. He comforts you, listens with no condemnation. He also knocks at your door. Do you open the door or do you pretend not to be home? Do you throw Him out when something new comes along? Do you lose interest within a few a months - when He never loses interest in you? Do ignore His messages, only answering Him when it is convenient? Do you show Him that you care about Him, the way He shows you? Do you invite Him to places with you?

Friendship only works, when it comes from both sides. In order to have a real relationship with our Lord, we should not only receive but give in abundance. It implies time with His Word, listening to His voice and talking to Him. Don't always wait for Him to call, but give Him a call on a regular basis. Don't let the closest friendship you will ever have, break down because you are too busy. He always answers invitations, requests and praise. He showers you in His friendship - why not shower Him with yours? He shares His knowledge, plans and promises with you, share your plans, feelings and dreams with Him. He wants to assist you, He wants to make your dreams reality within the borders of His will. He finds you worthwhile, your plans and dreams are important to Him. He has faith in you, even when everyone else don't. When you fail, He'll pick you up. When you are discouraged, He'll give you strength. Even when you really mess up, He forgives and mends the broken pieces.

When our relationship with the Lord is good, it will also guide our friendships. We 'll forgive, we'll always welcome them, give attention to their needs, offer a shoulder to cry on and a handkerchief to dry the tears. We'll support their ideas and will give honest answers. We'll encourage rather than discourage, we'll give advice rather than criticism, we'll listen without condemnation. We'll accept each other unconditionally, for we know that we also make mistakes. We'll trust and give reason to be trusted. We'll show each other appreciation. We'll send messages via the post, a hug, open door, telephone call: you are worthwhile. We'll stop looking at our watches and make time for each other.

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Background:Wendy's Backgrounds