Thankful for Friends

Tychicus, a loved brother, a faithful servant, and a fellow slave in the Lord . . . is with Onesimus, a faithful and loved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here. . . . Epaphras, who is one of you, a slave of Christ Jesus, greets you. . . . For I testify about him that he works hard for you. . . . And tell Archippus, “Pay attention to the ministry you have received in the Lord, so that you can accomplish it.” This greeting is in my own hand—Paul. Colossians 4:7-18 (hcsb)

When was the last time you spent some extended time in prayer simply thanking God for the friends in your life? When was the last time you sat down and wrote down the names of your closest friends—calling them by name, thanking God for what they mean to you and lifting them up in prayer?

In several of his letters the apostle Paul spent time mentioning those closest to him who had served alongside him. One such letter is Colossians. As he came to the close of this letter, Paul mentioned several friends by name. In these verses we learn a few things about friends for which we can be grateful as we reflect on our own set of friends.

First, true friends have Jesus Christ as their common thread. In his list Paul mentioned three Jews (Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus) and several Gentiles (Epaphras, Luke, and Demas). We find a doctor (Luke), a pastor (Epaphras), and a fugitive (Onesimus). Christian friendship crosses all barriers. A relationship with Jesus Christ is the greatest bridge builder between two people.

Second, true friendships are built in shared experiences of Christian service. Paul spoke of Tychicus as a “fellow slave.” He talked later of Epaphras as one who worked hard (verses 12-13). How did Paul know? He had worked alongside Epaphras and knew of his hard work serving God. The best of friendships begin as we work alongside others in our church, serving in a small group or Sunday school class, and sharing life’s experiences together, whether good or bad. It is a blessing to be surrounded by godly friends.

The best advice I can give a woman looking for solid Christian friendships is to get involved in your local church’s ministry. Serving Christ alongside true, authentic friends is one of the greatest joys in life. Obviously, Paul understood this as He gave us a great example of listing his friends and mentioning specifically why he was grateful to have them as part of his inner circle.

Father, I want to thank You for the Christian friends You have brought into my life. [Mention them by name and mention one thing in particular for which you are grateful in each of them.] Help me make more friends as I serve You. Thank You for the friends I have in my church family. In Jesus’ name, amen.