Devotions based on week 6 of Joy in the Journey: Friendship (WATCH HERE)
Philippians 2:19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 To be sure, I have no one else like him, who will be genuinely concerned about your welfare. 21 For, the others all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
We live in a time when friendship can feel shallow. Friends are defined by a quick “follow” on facebook, an emoji, or passing acquaintances. Interactions are brief looking at digital images or AI generated responses to your posts. We believe that the 100 people who respond to our birthday reminder can count as friends and perhaps feel like we are valued by the number likes our vacation photos receive.
Is this the mark of a true friend?
Maybe even defining what a true friend is difficult.
However, I think most would agree that a true friend really knows you and is more than a passing digital remark.
The Apostle Paul speaks of his friend and Gospel partner Timothy with a characteristic that is hard to find, but is found in a true friendship.
“I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare.”
Paul wasn’t impressed by status or charisma. He didn’t care if he got recognition on his birthday, he was tuned into and deeply moved by Timothy’s heart. What set Timothy apart wasn’t his talents but his genuine care. He didn’t treat people like projects. He didn’t connect with them to fill his personal ego or take from them for personal needs. He truly loved the people God had placed in his life and cared about their whole well-being—physically, emotionally, and most importantly, spiritually.
He REALLY wanted to know how they were doing.
Timothy took time to ask AND he took time to listen. Timothy took time to care AND to make sure the people around him were ok.
Why was this so different and stood out (shone like a star in the dark universe)?
Because most people look out for their OWN interests. Sadly it’s easy to fall into this trap. Life gets busy and we default to what’s convenient fo us.
Few engage in friendships and relationships to exhibit the interest of Christ. Timothy was one. His relationships were not about convenience but calling. His care was shaped by the love and mission of Christ.
In all his relationships, he wanted to model the attitude of Christ: Humility and love…genuine humility and love.
So, do you show genuine interest in your friends?
Ask yourself:
- Do I know my friends well enough to care for them in a meaningful way?
- Do I make space to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface?
- Am I just present in good times—or do I walk with them through adversity?
A godly friend takes a genuine concern in the lives of others.
Apply: Reach out to a friend—not with a quick “How are you?”—but with sincere intent to know and care for them. Ask about their spiritual walk. Offer encouragement or prayer. Let your care reflect the love of Christ.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Friend who knows and loves me deeply. Help me reflect Your heart in my friendships. Give me eyes to see the needs of others, and the courage to care in ways that matter. Shape my love to look like Yours—genuine, sacrificial, and rooted in truth. Amen.