God never intended for us to walk this journey of faith alone. We were created for community, designed to be part of something bigger than ourselves—a family of believers who strengthen, encourage, and restore one another. As we embrace this year of revival, it’s vital to remember that we are not called to revive our faith in isolation. God has placed us in His Body, the Church, to help us grow, to sharpen us, and to reignite the fire within our hearts. But just as important as our larger faith community, God has also placed good friends in our lives to help guide us, speak truth into us, and walk beside us in both the highs and lows.
Take Emily’s story. For years, she struggled to keep her faith alive. She had encountered setbacks, doubts, and spiritual dryness. It felt like a distant flame flickering within her—always there but never burning as brightly as it once had. Emily felt alone in her struggles. She would go through the motions, attending church on Sundays, but her heart wasn’t fully engaged. One day, during a small group meeting, Emily shared her struggles with a trusted friend named Rachel. That simple act of vulnerability opened a door to a deeper connection with others who were also walking through similar seasons of doubt.
Rachel didn’t just offer advice; she listened, prayed, and spoke words of truth that helped Emily see her situation from a new perspective. “You’re not alone in this,” Rachel reminded her. “I’ve been there, and I’m here for you.” That friendship became a lifeline for Emily, reminding her of God’s faithfulness and of the strength that comes from being surrounded by people who care deeply. Emily realized that revival wasn’t just a personal journey—it was a shared experience. She could rely on the strength of her friends to help her find her way back to a vibrant, living faith.
The importance of good friends in our walk with Christ cannot be overstated. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” We all need people who challenge us, encourage us, and remind us of the truth when we begin to drift. Good friends help us stay accountable, point us back to God’s Word, and spur us on to love and good deeds. They walk with us through seasons of doubt and celebration alike, never letting us walk alone.
We see in Scripture how the early church was committed to fellowship. Acts 2:42 says, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” This community, united in purpose, built each other up and held each other accountable. When one was weak, the others lifted them up. This is the body of Christ at work—reviving and strengthening each member so that together, they can live out the abundant life Jesus has called us to.
Revival doesn’t just happen in solitude. God uses community to ignite the flame in our hearts, to encourage us when we’re weak, and to remind us of the greater mission we are all part of. If you are feeling distant or spiritually dry today, seek out those around you—especially your trusted friends. Allow yourself to be known, to share your struggles, and to receive the support of others. Revival is a shared experience. God has placed people in your life to help you grow, to revive your spirit, and to help you walk in the fullness of the abundant life He has promised.
Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching – Hebrews 10:24-25
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the community of believers You have placed around me, and for the friends who walk beside me. I recognize that I was never meant to walk this journey alone. I pray that You would revive my spirit through the fellowship of others and the support of good friends. Help me to lean into my relationships for strength, encouragement, and accountability. Use my friendships to reignite my faith, and help me to do the same for others. I pray that we would build each other up in love and grow together into the abundant life You’ve called us to.
In Jesus’ Name
Amen
fromHisHearttoyours 