“I have wondered at times what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the US Congress.” -Ronald Reagan, 40th American President

Good friends enhance life in ordinary and profound ways. 

Building friendships takes time and attention. It usually starts small, and the roots grow deep through practicing honesty, encouraging one another, shared life events, and time, being patient with ebb and flow. 

A friend brings balance, clarity, and accountability. They are present when you suffer. A friend knows how to bring joy and share laughter. Friends challenge comfort zones and point out deceptions–naming blind spots: the Holy and human. 

“Blessed is he who loves his brother as well when is afar off as when he is by his side, and who would say nothing behind his back he might not, in love, say before his face.

–Francis of Assisi 

Exodus 33:11 describes God speaking to Moses directly: “The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.” This friendship was characterized by open communication and trust, forming the basis of Moses’ role as intercessor for the people of Israel. It was an exceptional intimacy that existed between God and Moses. Moses’ friendship with God is one of the rarest in all of Scripture, and shows us that friendship is about presence, trust, and commitment more than convenience. Modeling that both upward to God and outward to others creates relationships that shape and hold us steady. We can build friendships marked by candor and patience rather than shallow pleasantries.

Build your friend skills: Ask meaningful questions, share openly but moderately, make an effort to connect, respect boundaries, and be willing to work through conflict. God spoke to Moses throughout his life- Burning bush, plagues of Egypt, Red Sea, Passover, Mt. Sinai, Wilderness journey guiding and chiding, and the final Mount Nebo oration. God was patient with ebb and flow. 

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, Thank you for giving us the example of the Highest friendship and giving us the gift and comfort of friends on earth.  Bless friends far and near, holding them dear. Amen