Wednesday, November 22, 2006

November 11

For the Guys


If you’ve gotten anything out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care—then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends.


Philippians 2:1-2 (The Message)


They say your true friends are those you would call for help at two in the morning. Well, a couple of years ago, I found these were the men I met and prayed with every week. Over time, we developed a sense of trust. Friendships became anytime … anywhere.

Do you have an anytime, anywhere friend? Ask yourself, “If I consider all my relationships with other men, who is my best friend?” If your answer is someone you played football with back in high school, or an old fraternity brother you have not heard from in years, or a guy you knew ten years ago, you need something more—you need real friends! Even if you already have good friends, you can deepen those current friendships and grow stronger in Christ by investing time in a weekly breakfast, study group or prayer band or, together, reach out to others in need! Try it. You will be surprised at the sense of unity, the speed at which you connect and the joy in having a deep-spirited friend.


Father, thank You for the people you have placed all around us. Help us break free from the bondage of busyness to discover the blessings of meaningful relationships with those you bring our way. Help us to be and to have true friends, and help us make a difference in the lives of others. Amen.