Becoming an Intentional FriendSample

INTENTIONAL FRIEND

There are examples of intentional friendships in the Bible. There are also many stories of fractured relationships. From the prayer of Jesus in John 17 through the letters of the New Testament, there are countless “one another” verses highlighting how very important relationships are. Jesus’ desire is for our unity- that we would be bound together in the way that Ruth was loyal to Naomi, Jonathan committed to love David, and Jesus loved his disciples. The greatest way to express that unity is by loving one another, having compassion for one another, being patient with one another…

You cannot force someone else to extend lovingkindness toward you. But you can do everything you can not to stir up more harm in the relationship. A Spirit-led and intentional heart is the first step toward reconciliation.

Ask Yourself:

-Who in your life needs you to be an intentional friend, and how will you love and serve them? Consider how words and actions work together.

-As an intentional friend, how can you partner with God to build a healthy relationship and restore a broken one?

Pause to Pray: Let 1 Peter 3:16-18 (NLT) lead you into a time of silence and prayer. Ask God to speak to your heart.

We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.

Look for additional “Becoming” reading plans: Compassionate Storyteller, Savvy Follower, Embedded Influencer.

Find more resources at www.whoisgrace.com/READ.