“I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” — John 15:15
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As the reigning state champion, Alexa stepped onto the school’s home track feeling emotional. Her team was expected to take the first-place crown at the state meet the following weekend, but someone was missing. Their top thrower, Emma, had not qualified for the state meet and she wasn’t at practice that day. Alexa knew the pain and sadness Emma was going through because she had experienced a similar situation the year before at the regional cross-country meet.
After practice, Alexa had an idea. She went home and wrote a note to Emma, expressing all of the feelings she had felt last year. Alexa told Emma how, just like her, she had worked all year to be as good as she could be for the team. But God had other plans for Alexa — just as He had other plans for Emma — even though it didn’t seem like it at the time. Alexa picked up a small gift and headed to Emma’s house to surprise her.
Emma was shocked when Alexa arrived at her door with the gift and note. She had been down all day, feeling horrible for letting the team down. Alexa proceeded to explain to Emma that she understood how she felt and assured her there would be more to Emma’s story because “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
Alexa knew that Emma was a believer, but maybe she needed a little encouragement to go deeper in faith. Alexa could relate to the disappointment Emma was feeling, and all the questions that were going through her mind.
Both girls had gone through a lot. They both were extremely hard workers who took their training seriously. God showed them both that their worth is not defined by their performance — all He wants is for His believers to love Him with their whole heart and then share His love with others.
Alexa listened to the quiet voice of God, and because of that, both girls learned that it’s important to be more than just a teammate — Jesus wants us to be a true friend.
Have you or a friend gone through something difficult? The Bible has a lot to say about friendship. The relationship you foster with others can have a tremendous impact on them. Sometimes just letting someone know you care is all you need to do for them to see God through you.
Be a friend like Jesus!
— Melissa Fortman
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