Jesus and Spiritual Friendship

He replied, "You've been given insight into God's kingdom. You know how it works. Not everybody has this gift, this insight; it hasn't been given to them. Whenever someone has a ready heart for this, the insights and understandings flow freely. But if there is no readiness, any trace of receptivity soon disappears. That's why I tell stories: to create readiness, to nudge the people toward receptive insight...But you have God-blessed eyes—eyes that see! And God-blessed ears—ears that hear! Matthew 13:11-13;16

Jesus had a special relationship with the twelve disciples. He hand-picked them to be his followers and spent every day for three years with them, teaching them about the Kingdom of God and demonstrating that he was the Son of God through a series of miracles. When Jesus spoke to the disciples he spoke as a spiritual mentor, providing guidance, encouragement, support and correction. By contrast, when he spoke to large crowds he often did so in parables which the disciples and followers of Jesus understood but others often did not. Because Jesus took time and effort to cultivate a relationship of trust and support the disciples had "eyes to see" what God was up to.

Spiritual friendships are absolutely essential to the life of faith. We cannot walk alone, there are too many challenges and detours along the way. Jesus' ministry demonstrates to us the power of relationship, accountability and trust. When we learn to share with others, inlcude others in our spiritual lives, and allow others to guide and correct us when necessary we will grow stronger in the Lord. If we continue to walk alone Satan will certainly place obstacles in our way to keep us from seeing and experiencing the true joy and love of God.

So may you look for ways to support and encourage others in the spiritual journey, and may you allow others in your life to support and encourage you.