Proverbs 18:24….there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Jesus is the only friend that we can count on to never forsake us.  He knows just what we need, when we need it.  I’m thankful that we can count on Him when we everything else is falling apart around is.  Please read Psalm 91 on your own time, as it demonstrates how great a friend He is to us.

We have probably all been betrayed by friends or felt let down by people or family with whom we thought we were close.  The pain of betrayal runs deep and the old phrase “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me is probably one of the most egregious lies existing.  Words are powerful and as humans this can be an amazing way to either create enemies or make lifelong friends.  Although we understand that betrayal of friends and ill placed words can sting very sharply how many items to we inadvertently hurt those that are close to us? 

Jesus is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.  However, many times we hurt Him through or actions and words.  We may not mean to but when we allow ourselves to be focused on self and live life solely for ourselves we can easily displease our Lord and Savior.  Now more than ever before we must keep our heart and minds clean.  We must be a best friend to our best friend, Jesus.  He has truly done so much for us, however, we must live our lives for Him.  Knowing what to do and doing it can be tough.

Let’s allow Jesus to be the focus of our life.  He is truly all we need so let us live every day for Him.  “Pressing toward the mark,” Philippians 3:14.  With His help we can sacrifice our flesh and allow our Spirit to soar on High with God.  Going ever deeper with Him.  I encourage you to let Jesus be the focus of your life.

Sometimes Jesus may seem so far off, then we think and realize we haven’t been including Him in our lives like we should.  Now more than ever before we must stay close to Jesus.  With Him, there is safety, peace, hope, and great contentment.  Without Him, we will never be satisfied and fulfilled in our lives.  I’m so thankful that God does not always treat me like I treat Him.  He is that special friend who is always there for us even though we fail Him many times. 

When the days are dark and we go through trials, I admonish you to let the circumstances and valleys of life drive you to Jesus.  The valley can leave you spiritually dead and bare or you can flourish and allow it to lead you straight to the Master and strengthen your relationship with Him.  In uncertain times we can truly count on Him to be our Rock!