Together in Christ: 'A Velcro Friend' — Proverbs 17:17

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

— Proverbs 17:17 NLT

Key Thought

How did we survive before Velcro and zip ties? These two fastening inventions prove themselves useful almost daily in our household. They hold together many things at, in, and around our house. They're handy, durable, and dependable.

Isn't that what we need in our friendships and spiritual relationships — a handy friend with an enduring commitment and a dependable presence? Many people want to be our "friends" when things are going well. They're happy to accompany us when we have money. They're loyal to us as long as we are well and can run around doing fun stuff with them. But will they be there during tough times, when money is scarce, or life is hard? This genuine friend will help us handle the ups and downs of life's messes. These are what I like to call "Velcro friends" — people who stick with us through thick and then! And, if we are going to have "Velcro friends," then we had better be a "Velcro friends" to others!

Today's Prayer

Father, please keep people in my life that are Spirit-filled and who will commit to being a "Velcro friend" in my life. Be with me, Lord, as I commit to being that kind of friend to others. I trust the Holy Spirit to empower me to love and produce * an endless supply of Your love, O God, from within me that will flow out of me and into the lives of others who need Jesus. & In Jesus' mighty name, I pray. Amen.

* Romans 5:5.
& John 7:37-39.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
  • Proverbs 17:17, 18:24, 27:6, 9, 10

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Illustration

Illustration of Proverbs 17:17 NLT — A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

About This Devotional

Together in Christ is a daily devotional that focuses on what Scripture teaches about godly living in relationships.

'Together in Christ' is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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