Why You Need Loyal Friends

Daily Devotional – Friday, July 1, 2022
When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.”
Mark 2:5 (NKJV)

They had watched for years as their friend’s health deteriorated. They had spent long hours trying to encourage their despondent colleague.

Each of the four Capernaum friends had suggested different treatment methods for their paralyzed friend. No one had succeeded. The paralytic himself had given up.

Then they heard about Jesus, a Rabbi from Nazareth, who had healed many people. The sick man was skeptical. He wondered whether Jesus would heal a sinner like him.

When Jesus Saw Their faith…

The four friends immediately placed the protesting man on a bed and hauled him to the house where Jesus was ministering.

When they arrived, there was no space left. No one was willing to give way. After consulting among themselves, they decided they were not returning home with the paralytic still sick.

They climbed the roof, removed part of it, and lowered the sick man on an improvised bed. They would compensate the owner for the damage later.

“When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.”” (Mark 2:5).

There is a Friend Who Sticks Closer than a Brother

Because of friends who were ready to sacrifice everything, the paralytic received healing. We all need such friends. People who will accept us the way we are yet find ways to help us become better.

Of such friends, Solomon says, “There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24). If you don’t have such friends, ask God for wisdom to identify them. If you have them, stand by them, especially in difficult times.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be a loyal friend to my friends.