The Treasure of Spiritual Friends

A few days ago, I had lunch with a dear friend. As usual, conversation started with banter, dancing in rhythms established decades ago. Then, as can only happen in time-cured friendships, the inside jokes quickly but imperceptibly gave way to meaty authenticity. Later, driving away from the restaurant, I reflected on the treasure God gives us through spiritual friendships–the treasure He's given me through my friendships.

A few days ago, I had lunch with a dear friend. As usual, conversation started with banter, dancing in rhythms established decades ago. Then, as can only happen in time-cured friendships, the inside jokes quickly but imperceptibly gave way to meaty authenticity. Later, driving away from the restaurant, I reflected on the treasure God gives us through spiritual friendships–the treasure He's given me through my friendships.

Of course, you don't have to be a believer to have good friends–friends who are loyal, who know your story as well as their own, who are on your side. But there is a special type of friendship reserved for those who have the same Spirit in them. It's more than a shared values or shared vocabulary. These connections surpass all that. In fact, they often form even among people who have little in common. The most amazing thing about spiritual friendships–the eternal thing–is how God uses them.

I have a long string of friends God has given me. Some know how formational they are to me, some would probably never guess. Among them are schoolmates and roommates, colleagues and co-conspirators. I met many at church or on the road or some other mundane place of everyday life. Some were for a season, others will be life-long, and a few are already in heaven. But each has been a light-bringer in my life.

Spiritual friends prayed for and with me. Some shared the gospel with me before I believed, and most did so afterward, too. They've listened to my story, and I've listened to theirs as well. They teach me about myself, but more importantly, they teach me about God. They speak truth when I'm believing lies. They teach me how to pray or love or give or grieve. They are a treasure God gave me for my sanctification and for my joy.

You probably have some of these friends, and you've probably been one of these friends to somebody.  If God's given you friends like this, do something to celebrate that gift. Maybe you'll leave a comment here or on their Facebook pages. Perhaps you can text them. Even better, write them a real letter or pick up the phone or make a lunch date to tell them that God uses them in your life. Pray for those people, and thank God for sending you your spiritual friends.