At All Times

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. – (Proverbs 17:17, NIV)

A friend loves you all the time, but a brother was born to help in times of trouble. – (Proverbs 17:17, ERV)

Friends love through all kinds of weather, and families stick together in all kinds of trouble. – (Proverbs 17:17, MSG)

I am abundantly blessed with both friends and family. My closest friends are loving, loyal, and kind, and my family has stuck together through all that life has thrown our way. There are not enough words to express my appreciation and gratitude to God for the gifts He has given me through both my family and friends. When struggles come, I know that I have a support system present. In the same way, I love each of them. Despite the time and distance between us, we can always pick up where we left off and there is no guilt in the challenge of scheduling time together. These relationship provide glimpses of God and continually remind me of His goodness and grace. He is near and He makes Himself tangible through the family and friends that He provides us. I know that not everyone has family by blood that are close, yet even those, He provides friends who become family. May we ever give the Lord praise throughout all our days for the gift of family and friends, and depend on Him to equip us to be His hands, heart and voice to those around us.

Friends are true blessings,

throughout all our days;

the love and laughter,

show us the Lord’s grace.

Beloved family,

on whom we depend;

through life’s highs and lows,

their love does extend.

Through all things that come,

true love shall remain;

as those who draw near,

make the Lord’s love plain.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of family and friends. Thank You for the hearts and hands that hold us close, even when distance and time separate us. Thank You that You make Your love tangible through those whom You have placed in our lives. Forgive us for taking these gifts for granted or for not taking every opportunity to love as we are loved by You. Teach us how to be friends and family that remain close through all times. Show us how to love each gift You have given us. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we thank and praise You for the friends and family whom You have given us to love well. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. – 1 Peter 3:8