Tuesday, November 5, 2024

King Solomon is known for his God-given wisdom. His insights in Proverbs 18:24 highlight the value of true, loyal friendship. He is urging us to seek those who offer wisdom in our walk with God—friends who can be as close as family.

Proverbs 18:24 
There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. 

This scripture reveals the depth of true friendship—those relationships that don’t merely fill the space of companionship, but are anchored deeply with loyalty, understanding, and encouragement. True friends bring us closer to God, build up our faith, and stand by us through every season. These are the people who are unwavering and enduring, and in many ways, become family in spirit.

In my life, I call these friends “The Rooted Ones.” They’re more than companions—they’re people whose presence in my life feels divinely appointed. They’ve seen me at my best and my weakest, listened to my dreams, and spoken God’s truth into my life when I needed it most. When I feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or just exhausted, the Rooted Ones are there. They offer wisdom, lift me up in prayer, and remind me that my life’s work is not merely a personal pursuit, but a calling from God. Their encouragement reaffirms my purpose, helping me recognize how my dreams align with his will.

What sets them apart and brings them “closer than a brother” is their willingness to speak the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Real encouragement isn’t always easy to receive; sometimes it means hearing gentle corrections or being held accountable. The Rooted Ones have a way of lovingly redirecting me when I lose focus, always reminding me of my identity in Christ and helping me see my life through God’s perspective. They challenge me to break free from self-doubt, embrace my purpose fully, and move forward with a heart grounded in God’s truth.

God designed us to live in community, to share our lives with those who point us back to him. Without these relationships, it’s easy to become isolated, thinking we must carry our burdens alone. But my Rooted Ones are more than just friends—they’re my divine family, chosen to encourage, uplift, and remind me of God’s love. They know my heart, my struggles, and my journey of faith in ways only deeply rooted ones can.

Questions: 
Who are the “Rooted Ones” God has placed in your life, and how can you intentionally nurture these relationships to allow them to draw you closer to him?

Are you open to receiving both encouragement and loving truth from your closest friends, even when it challenges you? How might God be using these friends to shape you into the person he’s calling you to be?

Next Steps: 
Identify one or two of your “Rooted Ones” and reach out to thank them for the role they play in your life. Share with them how their support has impacted you and ask if they would join you in prayer for continued growth and purpose. Consider setting up regular check-ins with them for encouragement, accountability, and to deepen your walk with God together.

Prayer: 
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of true friendship and for the people you have placed in my life who stand by me like family. I am so grateful for these friends who encourage me, speak truth into my heart, and remind me of my purpose in you. Help me to discern the voices that draw me closer to you and give me the courage to let these “Rooted Ones” in more deeply, especially when it’s hard to hear the truth. Lord, teach me to be open, humble, and willing to receive the love and guidance you provide through them. Strengthen these relationships and guide us to support each other in faith, hope, and love. Let my life reflect the encouragement and truth you’ve placed within me through these friendships. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Romans 1:20
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Today’s post was written by Monique Myers, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.