Every relationship bends through highs and lows. And typically, it takes a crisis for me to start inviting God into close friendships.
What if I choose to get proactive about inviting God into my relationships with others? The impact could be life changing!
The first step of inviting God into my relationships is simple: Pray for my friends, and ask my friends to pray for me. When I ask my friends to pray for me and vis versa, we’re all admitting we can’t do life on my own. We need God, and God has designed us to need each other.
Jesus tells us, “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:20 (NLT)
Jesus is essentially saying, “If you want to experience me fully, live in community with others.” How do we live in community with others? I’m not going to give you the full answer right now, but I will give you 3 ideas to help you start.
1. Ask 3 People in Your Life This Week How You Can Pray For Them
I’ve heard it said, “If you want a good friend you must first be a good friend.” Practice making the first move in your friendships by asking how you can pray for others. It can be as easy as sending them a text message.
2. Actually Pray For Your Friend’s Requests
The easy part is asking your friends how you can pray for them. But this step is the tough one. Enter it on your calendar app or post it on the bathroom mirror. Do something to help you remember your friend’s requests.
I use stickie notes and write out their requests. Then I post them on the wall in my room where I will see them everyday. Echo Prayer app can also help you keep track. You can enter info in the app and receive regular pings to pray for your friends. This step is what will truly change your heart.
Prayer is not just a bunch of meaningless words. It’s intentionally going before the God of the universe on your friend’s behalf.
3. Ask Your Friends for an Update on Their Request
When you let your friends know you are praying for them, they will feel so loved! Practicing this habit will make you a more caring and attentive friend.
“The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” James 5:16 (NLT)
Praying for your friends and talking with God about them won’t just open your heart to love them more, it’ll also help you to invite God into every relationship.
What’s Coming Next:
We’ll ask you to share your story.
