March 21


Questions for Strong Friends


You are our dear friends, and everything we do is to make you stronger.

II Corinthians 12:19b (NCV)


This is becoming my heart: to think more of others and less of myself. It's a simple truth. God wants each of us to think more of those around us. Questions can help. Questions like: What is to their benefit? How can I help them, encourage them, and build them up? What can I say to show I am a true friend and not seeking to use or manipulate them in any way?

And there are more questions I’m asking myself: What is the right thing to do to strengthen others? What is the wise thing to do, so others will see Christ and not me?

The answers vary. Sometimes it is the sacrificial thing. Sometimes it is the painful thing, and many times as we use our gifts, it is the joyful thing. And at other times, it is simply giving my friend room to grow—staying quiet, and trusting God to speak to his or her heart in a way I can’t. Sometimes….

Sometimes … but in my opinion, it always takes prayer. Prayer for wisdom. Prayer for receptive hearts. Prayer for God’s good and transforming work to be completed in each of us.

This is friendship: doing what is best to strengthen the other—whatever the cost.


Lord, help me to be a great friend. Give me wisdom to always do right things to bless all my friends. Amen.