Who’s in Your Boat? A Reflection on Friendship and Discernment
When was the last time you paused to ask the people around you how they truly feel?
When was the last time you made the effort to check on your friends, just to make sure they’re okay?
Too often, we get so caught up in the busyness and demands of life that we forget to look around, to notice the hearts of those close to us. Yet Scripture reminds us: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” This isn’t a command to obey only when it’s convenient. It challenges us to love even when it requires sacrifice, discomfort, or intentional effort.
Jesus’ friendship with Martha, Mary, and Lazarus offers us a profound example of genuine, sacrificial love. The Bible tells us that the Jews had previously sought to kill Jesus in Judea, so He left that region. But when He later received word that “Lord, the one you love is sick,” He didn’t rush back immediately. Instead, He waited two more days. Then He told His disciples He was going back.
The disciples were concerned and reminded Him, “But Rabbi, a short while ago the Jews there tried to stone you, and yet you are going back?” (John 11:8). But Jesus knew that this moment was destined to bring glory to God—and it wasn’t just anyone who was sick. It was someone close.
In John 11:11, Jesus said, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.” they didn't understand that He was speaking about Lazarus being dead, that's the sleep he meant. He was going to awaken a beloved friend.
Scripture also tells us that when Jesus visited their home, He would often speak with them about the Kingdom of God. Martha would be busy with so many things, choosing a different path from Mary. Their relationship was one where Jesus would come to their home
So, when Jesus finally arrived at Lazarus’ tomb, we witness one of the most emotional moments in the Gospels: Jesus wept (John 11:35). This is one of the few times Scripture records Jesus crying. Even though He knew He would raise Lazarus from the dead, the sorrow and grief in that moment—the weight of love and loss—moved Him to tears.
True friends are a gift, especially when they are God-sent.
That’s why we must be intentional about who we allow into the inner places of our lives. Not everyone is meant to stay. Don’t give a permanent position to someone who was only meant to be passing through. Don’t give a front-row seat to someone who belongs in the background.
Friendships have power. The people we surround ourselves with can influence our lives positively or negatively. Lazarus’ relationship with Jesus became a doorway through which he and his sisters experienced resurrection power and the glory of God.
We must be discerning. Some people come into our lives for a reason, others for a season, and a few for a liaison. The friends you keep can either open heaven over your life or shut it. They can either push you forward or cause your boat to sink.
As we walk through the different phases of our purpose and destiny, let us make it a norm to always ask the Holy Spirit to guide us in choosing the right people. Because sometimes, the very presence of the wrong person in your boat may be the reason you're struggling to stay afloat.
Stay Revived!
No comments:
Post a Comment