How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me.

Philippians 4:10

When I read the verse above, I found Paul’s joy in the friendship of the Philippians. Paul’s decision to follow Christ had no doubt cost him many friends from his youth and ministry was certainly lonely at times, but God was faithful in providing new people who genuinely cared for him.

Several months ago I had our family home movies converted to digital files we can share with our family. As I watched those old films, I noticed that most of them featured friends and relatives. I haven’t seen many of those people since I was a small boy, but Mom kept in touch with many of them and some of those friendships lasted until our Mom died earlier this year.

We moved around a lot when we were small, but my parents found a sense of community wherever we moved and it reminded me again today that we need more than casual superficial relationships. We need friends – people we care for and they care for us.

You’ve probably heard James Taylor’s version of “You’ve got a friend” but did you know the song was written and recorded first by Carole King? Here’s a sample of the lyrics –

When you're down and troubled
And you need a helping hand
And nothing, nothing is going right
Close your eyes and think of me
And soon I will be there
To brighten up even your darkest nights

Winter, spring, summer, or fall
Ain't now all you got to do is call
Lord, I'll be there, yes I will
You've got a friend

Let’s be thankful for our friends.