Sunday Words of Encouragement July 25, 2010

Our Pastor's message this morning was "Friends That Care." The primary verses were Phillipians 2:19-30. He advised us to

• Cultivate a genuine interest (like Paul and Timothy) Phil 2:3-4.
• Offer sincere encouragement to others. Phil 2:19-22.
• Practice unselfishness. Isaiah 58:10-11.

He also reminded us that we have different levels of friendships in our lives: acquaintances, casual friends, close friends and intimate friends. The one friend we can always count on though is a friend who sticks closer than a brother, and the friend who gave his life so that we could inherit the Kingdom with Him: Jesus.

I had this video on my list and I think it fits well today.

A verse for today:

Proverbs 18:24 (New International Version)

24 A man of many companions may come to ruin,

but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

We prayed today for strength and guidance to be better friends to others. I was mindful of friends I have made online who have health and family struggles and I prayed for them. Also, we have a youth team on a mission trip to Spain this week and we pray for their safety and that they might touch hearts.