Hebrews 13:5b “...because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

I’ve always been known as a “nice” person, and people have often told me that I was a “good” person. But it’s been very rare that someone has referred to me as their “good friend” or even “best friend”. 

Looking back, I don’t think that I was necessarily a bad friend, I just wasn’t a good one. Recently, God has placed people in my life that I can sincerely call my friend. Everytime I think about it I tear up, because I know I am not the easiest person to be friends with. I can get irritated very quickly, I’m not big on hanging out all the time, sarcasm is like a second language to me, and my social interests are extremely limited. Even so, I have people in my life that refused to give up on me, that have shown a lot of love and patience as I learn to love and grow and become a better friend.

I had to realize that friendship isn’t all about being accepted as you are, but growing in ways that can change your life and others. I had to learn that when my friends challenge me to step outside of my comfort zone, it’s not about them trying to change me, but they are challenging me to grow as Christ has called us to grow. Although they do still get on my nerves (lol), I am so grateful for the time, effort and love that has been poured into developing me as a better friend. I can see how it’s impacted so many other areas of my life. I’ve picked up new hobbies. I’ve met some great new people along the way. I’ve even discovered some new talents that I have.

This experience has caused me to grow closer to God. If loving me as a friend is difficult, I can’t imagine the amount of love and patience and care that God has for each and every one of us. He is there waiting for us through our sin and shame, our attitudes and rebellion, when we refuse to spend time with Him and ignore His calls upon our hearts.

Is God calling you to be a better Christian? How long has He waited patiently for you to start growing in your walk? He has met you where you are, but now challenging you to move from that place of stagnation to a loving, personal relationship with him. You don’t have enough attitude or sin to push God away. He loves you so much and wants to be in right relationship with you. I know so often we feel unworthy, but God is a God of love of patience. He promises to never leave nor forsake you. Will you let Him in? I promise, He can and will change your life.

Heavenly Father, I thank you for the natural friends you have given me to help grow me. But God I thank you for going over and beyond that and loving me with a perfect, Agape love. God I repent for all the times I’ve tried to shut you out and for all the times I’ve tried to shut out those you’ve placed in my life. God continue to teach me how to love you and the wonderful examples of you that you have placed in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

By: Min April Carter