Title: Friendship and Spiritual Growth.

John 13:34  A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

Devotion: This is the concluding part of yesterday's discussion. 

  Friendship plays a significant role in a believer's spiritual growth, as it provides a supportive and enriching environment for faith to flourish. Here’s how:

 1. Encouragement and Accountability-

   - True friends in Christ encourage one another to live according to God’s will. They lovingly challenge and correct when one strays from the path.

   - Proverbs 27:17 - "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

 2. Spiritual Guidance:

   - Godly friends can offer wisdom, share scripture, and provide counsel during challenging times, helping one discern God’s direction.

   - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 - "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up."

 3. Prayer Support:

   - Friends strengthen faith by praying together and interceding for each other. This mutual spiritual practice invites God’s presence and power into their lives. Do you have a prayer partner?

   - Matthew 18:20 - "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."

 4. Shared Spiritual Growth:

   - Engaging in Bible studies, worship, or serving together fosters spiritual maturity. Friends inspire each other to deepen their relationship with God.

   - Hebrews 10:24-25 - "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another."

 5. Reflection of God’s Love:

   - Friendships reflect Christ’s unconditional love and teach believers to love sacrificially, just as He commanded.

   - John 13:34-35 - "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples."

In essence, friendships rooted in faith help believers grow closer to God and develop Christ-like character. They remind us that Christianity is not a solitary journey—it’s a shared walk of love, encouragement, and mutual spiritual growth. 

Who is your friend who shares your Christian value, prays with you, studies the bible with you? If you don't have yet prayerfully select one. Your spouse, child, sibling or mature Christian brother or sister can be one. Shalom. 

©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, I am available at gbemide09@gmail.com. Send your thoughts, concerns or questions. Please feel free to share this devotional with your contacts.