Think about it. Even Jesus surrounded himself with 12 individuals He knew He could count on. If Jesus needed friends to help His ministry succeed, do you really think you can do it alone?
Of course, church is a fantastic place to get support, advice, encouragement, and help with many issues that you face. It is vital that you are plugged-in to a church family to help you in your walk with Christ. However, that may not be enough. Most of us are only at church 2-3 days per week, max.
Who is there to support you the rest of the time? Who is there for you at school, at work, or even at home? You need a group of friends around you that love God and want to not only see you happy, but to see you growing closer to your Savior.
Your friends can be there any time you need them. They will be there to hold you accountable during tempting situations. They will be able to tell when you need support or encouragement. They should be continually praying for you. And you should be doing all of these things for them.
Being encouraged, supported, remembered in prayer, and held accountable are essential to your growth as a Christian. Yet, Jesus tells us that we should take our friendships even further.
There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. (John 15:13 NLT)
It is obvious that God wants us to be involved in very close and personal friendships that can help us come closer to Him. Do you have friends that would give their lives for you? Jesus obviously thinks you should. After all, He set the ultimate example of this by dying on the cross for us…for you.
Are you that kind of friend?