He Who Sticks Close
My childhood best friend and I were inseparable. She lived in the house behind me, and our dads cut a trail between the trees so we could cut right through to each other’s yards. We loved to read and make up stories, we loved riding our bikes and bonding over being the oldest child. We even looked alike with our blonde hair, blue eyes, wore glasses, and many times were mistaken for sisters. We were sisters, in our hearts.
The bond of friendship is fierce, loyal, and lasting. To know someone has your back if you’re feeling blue or having that one person you can run to with exciting news and know they’ll share in your joy, is special. And the more time you spend with someone, the closer you become, creating moments that turn to memories. Who we spend time with has influence.
Even when we may not have that close friend and get a little lonely, we can turn to the One who is always there, always ready to listen, lend an ear, and share His heart.
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (Proverbs 18:24)
Jesus loves spending time with us. He sees us, He knows the things that make us excited and the things that make us hesitate. He is patient, kind, considerate, compassionate, loyal—the list goes on and on. We can trust Him with our hearts, and with every situation we face.
We can lean into the love of Jesus. He is our good Shepherd, our Redeemer, our Rock, and our great hope. He can be trusted to hold our hearts with tenderness and guide us in the ways we should go.
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. (Proverbs 17:17)
When things get hard, lean into Jesus. His heart toward you is good, and He wants a closer relationship so you can get to know Him deeper, and let His love transform your hurt with His healing love. He who sticks close can soothe the wounds and fears of your heart.
Like friends of old, a relationship with Jesus just gets better over time.
Questions for Reflection:
- Have you seen Jesus as a close friend? If not, what is keeping you from this relationship with Him?
2. List out the ways that Jesus has been loyal and steadfast in your life and give Him thanks.
