Friendships in Prayer

Job 16:17-22 – Not for any injustice in mine hands: also my prayer is pure. O earth, cover not thou my blood, and let my cry have no place. Also now, behold, my witness is in heaven, and my record is on high. My friends scorn me: but mine eye poureth out tears unto God. O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbour! When a few years are come, then I shall go the way whence I shall not return.

As Job assures himself that he hasn’t committed any injustices, he looks for someone who would plead with God on his behalf rather than receive the scorn from his friends.

1. We often speak before pray…or think. Many times when our friends are struggling, in sin, or needing answers or help, we rush to share our opinion. When we rush to help, we can cause greater damage, even when we have the best intentions (Proverbs 19:2, 25:20). Therefore, it’s important that we first hear from the Lord on whether we should say or do anything. Who else better to speak with than God?!

2. Plead with God. First, take time to pray for your friend. Even if you don’t know everything your friend is going through, God does (Psalm 139:1-24). Oftentimes the greatest ‘work’ you can accomplish for another is prayer. Second, pray for guidance on what your role should be in your friend’s life. For you, this is a time of patience and calming the anxious thoughts to say or do something. You need to remain quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19)…no matter how badly you want to say something.

3. Remember the purpose of friendship. Each of us experience seasons of joy and sorrow. We should be with our friends in best and worst of times (Romans 12:15). Sometimes your presence alone will speak volumes above anything you can say. Don’t get caught up in what you would like to say and your own perspective on the matter. Strive to understand your friend’s perspective and how the Lord wants you to respond. (Silence is a response.)

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