#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin
Key Bible Verse:
“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13 (NIV)
Imagine you’re at a crossroads in life, feeling the weight of decisions, the pull of peer pressure, and the noise of a world that seems to value the wrong things. In the midst of all this, you meet someone who stands out. They aren’t just another friend; they’re different. They’re the kind of friend who doesn’t just share laughs and good times with you but guides you towards something far greater—towards God.
Apologetic Insight:
(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.
The Bible tells us about the importance of friendship, but what about the kind of friend that truly matters in the grand scheme of things?
“Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art… It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.” — C.S. Lewis
C.S. Lewis, a renowned Christian apologist, reminds us that true friendship goes beyond mere survival; it enriches our lives. In our spiritual journey, this principle applies even more. A friend who leads us to God isn’t just adding value to our life; they’re pointing us towards eternity. They exemplify the love described in John 15:13, where Jesus lays down His life for His friends. This sacrificial love is the ultimate friendship, one that sets the standard for all others.
Encouragement & Application:
Having doubts or feeling alone in your faith journey is completely normal. It’s not a sign of weak faith but an opportunity for growth. Here are some steps you can take:
- Seek out a spiritual friend: Look for someone whose life reflects their love for God, who encourages you in your faith, and who points you to Christ.
- Engage with Scripture: Spend time reading the Bible to understand God’s perspective on friendship, love, and eternal life.
- Be that friend: As you grow, you can also be the friend who leads others to God, reflecting His love in your relationships.
Remember, it’s not about the number of friends but the quality of the friendship. One true friend can make all the difference in your journey towards God.
Reflection Questions:
- How does the concept of true friendship, as described in John 15:13, impact your current relationships?
- Can you think of someone in your life who embodies this kind of sacrificial love? How can you emulate that in your friendships?
- What steps can you take to become a friend who leads others to God?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of friendship and for Jesus, the ultimate friend who laid down His life for us. Help us to value the friends who lead us closer to You and give us the wisdom to be such friends to others. Guide us in our relationships, that we might reflect Your love and lead others to Your truth. Amen.
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