The Ministry Of Friendship: Be Present

We should be willing to step out of our comfort zone and be present for the people in our lives.   ~~~   1 Samuel 23:16 “And Jonathan, Saul’s son, rose and went to David…” Jonathan goes to David, even though David is in hiding, and even at great risk of Jonathan’s own life. The encouragement of a fellow brother or sister who is pensive, or depressed, is worth a risk! Jonathan initiates. He doesn’t wait for a letter or request from David. He is not waiting by the phone saying, “If he needs me, and asks, I will go to him.” NO! He takes initiative. He moves. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in a time of trouble… God is in the midst of her.” He is here, present with us. This is one of the distinguishing features of the true and Biblical God, that He is immanent and close to His people. He is not a far-off God who has no concern or care for his creation or people. The God-man entered His creation. Jesus left behind the glory and splendors in heaven, he humbled himself to come to us. He arose from his throne and came to us. And so too we should be able to say about God’s people, that they are close and with us, a very present help in a time of trouble. Sometimes the providence and grace of God includes the presence of other believers in order to help us persevere and endure. Are you there, present for people? Are you willing to push things off of your busy schedule in order to be there for your faith family? What are you willing to risk in order to be there for your people? It can definitely push us out of our comfort zones, but look at what is at stake. You may be helping your brother or sister from being crushed under the weight of fear, the cloud of confusion. Your presence is comforting and useful. Just like a newborn baby needs the physical presence of her mother, so too does the believer need the presence and warmth of Christ that is often felt in Christian fellowship.