Friendship in Four Parts (P3)

"But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd." Matt. 9:36

Being a "Samaritan" Friend:

(Jesus to the world)

Jesus had compassion on the world. He lived his life to serve others. He was caring and comforting. He spent time with them and healed their infirmities. He ate with sinners and fed the multitudes. He strengthened the weak. He spoke words of encouragement. He loved unconditionally.

Luke 10:33

"But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion [on him], And went to [him], and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave [them] to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise." Luke 10:33-37

Who is your neighbor? Neighbors come in all shapes and sizes. The literal neighbor, the unsaved relative, the friend at school. May be it's someone that sits alone or with the same person each week? Maybe they aren't the nicest, or maybe they are irritating or annoying. Maybe they talk a lot or they never talk to anyone.

Have you ever wondered if they have been hurt in the past? Have you ever wondered if they could use a good friend? 

     Ways to Make Friends and Be a Good Friend:

     #1 Say Hello. Get to know them.

     #2 Include them. Introduce your friends to them (show yourself friendly)

     #3 Pray for them. Ask them for prayer requests. (…God will show you how to be the right kind of friend)

     #4 Forgive their mistakes. (everybody needs forgiveness)

     #5 Have compassion on them. (Compassion means "Their hurt in YOUR Heart".)

     #6 Give them your time and attention. (They might have a strange hobby or collection…but so do you!)

     #6 Seek ways to do something nice for them. (cards, gifts, candy, something to do with their hobby)

     #7 Be patient with their growth and progress. (People are being patient with you!)

     #8 Love them unconditionally. (surprised I included this one?)