Close Friends

Proverbs 17:9 Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends. NLT

When a close friend promises to have your back in difficult situations, your expectation is that he will honor his word. Jesus told His disciples that trouble was brewing against Him and before the night was over, He would be stuck down and all of them would desert Him. Peter declared, “Even if everyone else deserts you, I will never desert you.” Before that night was over, Peter had denied that he knew Jesus three times. True friendship is based on unconditional love. It is willing to forgive and overlook a wrong done to it. It does not retaliate by repaying evil for evil. Before Jesus returned to Heaven, He went to Peter. He did not mention that Peter had not kept his promise to stand with Him. Dwelling on past failures separates close friends. Instead, Jesus showed Peter compassion and forgiveness. Promises will be made and promises will be broken by men. But you can depend on the promises of God. God is faithful to His word, and not one of His promises to you will fall to the ground unfulfilled. Love forgives and retains close friendships.

Scripture References: Matthew 26:31-35; John 21:14-19AMP

Prayer for today: Father you commanded us to love, forgive and not dwell on a wrong done. You said we can do this by the power of Holy Spirit at work in us. With His help, we will rise to the occasion.   In JESUS name, AMEN.

Whatever you must do today, there is a grace for that. Accept the grace and make it a sweatless day.

Love

Dianne