Loneliness
Loneliness is everywhere around us, sometimes within us, and is
often responded to with, "If you want a friend, make yourself
friendly" (taken from Pr. 18:24).
We gulp, give it a try, and conclude it does not work.
Scripture always works when properly applied. Perhaps we are
friendly for what we can get out of it (Ja. 4:3), or we take the
meaning too lightly.
Jesus is our best model of what a friend could and should be.
In all the ways He has loved us, we are to love each other (Jn.
15:12). There is not much room for loneliness when our vessel is
filled with love.
All it takes is enough compassion to be the difference (Jude
22) and, in so doing, we can not out give God (Lu. 6:38). In
staying the course, we may also find the desires of our heart
(Ps. 37:3-4) and to have both found and become a friend like
Jesus. The most beautiful part being that we would have become a
best friend to Jesus, caring more about the desires of His heart
than ours. And when we walk with Him, we are and are being made
complete.
Not forgetting we are also human, why not give others a break
and love them anyway? Then, when they don't receive, just shake
the dust off your feet and try again another day. But better
yet, seek those in need. It could just be that the desire of
their heart is the same as yours ~ to have a friend like Jesus.
Now who could resist that? ________________________
I HAVE BEEN A TRUE FRIEND WHEN I HAVE ...
Loved as my own soul (De. 13:6). Taken time to get to know
them. Been trustworthy. Both shared and ate spiritual manna (Ps.
41:9). Loved at all times (Pr. 17:17). Stuck closer than a
brother (Pr. 18:24). Been faithful even when wounded (Pr. 27:6).
Given hearty counsel (Pr. 27:9). Been available when trouble
comes (Pr. 27:10). Sought to bring out the best in them (Pr.
27:17). Believed God (Ja. 2:23).
________________________
No matter the problem, we will find our way when we choose to
believe God.