Gimme That Good, Good Lovin'...More of God's Good Lovin'!

"A friend loves at all times." Proverbs 17:17


For the last couple of days, as I've pondered this post, the chorus to that song "Good Lovin'" by the Young Rascals, has played over and over in my mind. (I'm showing my age again, aren't I?...And may I just point out that in the old days that there just wasn't much choice of what you could listen to!) Although some of the lyrics may be a little quirky, the chorus is profoundly true...All [we] want...and need is good lovin'.

In my last post, I wrote about the "tangible-ness" of God's love. He is so faithful to show His great love for us. We just have to learn to look for it. Luke 11:9(NIV) says, "...Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find..."


You know, God knows us better than anyone else. He speaks our "love language." He knows our wants and needs. And one of the most wonderful ways that God loves on us tangibly is through our friends!! I am utterly astounded at the measure of love God has shown me through the friendships of women who love Him and love His Word. I know without a doubt that God has clearly orchestrated the details in bringing each one of them into my life. And oh, how I thank Him!

God provides friendships to help make us stronger in our walk with Him. There is not much that exhilarates me more than sharing truths God is showing in His Word or the work that He is doing in our lives as we enjoy a Frappacino or something delectably chocolate! "Pity the fool" (Did I just quote Mr. T?) that is sitting next to us! Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one [woman] sharpens another." God surely uses our Christian friendships to grow us closer to the One who loves us the most!


God also sends friends to strengthen us in our walks through this earthly life. John 16:33 says, "In this world you will have trouble...." It's inevitable. But, through God's sovereign grace and provision, He has prepared us for the journey by placing fellow warriors in our path. I am so grateful for the women who have walked with me, cried with me, interceded for me as I travelled difficult roads. In Ecclesiastes 4:10-12, we are reminded that "Two are better than one....If one falls down, his friend can help him up....Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." I'm thankful for the friends who've "been there" for me and for the privilege of opportunities to be the friend God uses to minister, to love, and to encourage. It's what friends do.

I pray that you are richly blessed with Godly friends. If you are not, make Luke 11:9 your prayer. Ask. Seek. He loves you! Just watch as He shows you!

Lord, thank you foremost for "what a friend we have in Jesus." And thank you that in addition to your great love that you have given us earthly friends to love, to "cheer on", to share this journey. Thank you for the "treasures" that you have given us that we may "know that [You are] the Lord, the God of Israel, the One who calls [us] by name! (Isaiah 45:3 NLT)