When You Need A Friend

When You Need a Friend

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.

I was sitting in the doctor’s office one morning with my middle daughter after a sleepless night when Jen’s call came in. Unable to take the call, I let it go to voice mail. Once we returned home, I thought of Jen as I pulled out my phone and listened to her message. Tears sprang to my eyes as I heard her concerned voice across the line. “Hello! Just checking in to see how you and Jasmine are doing,” she said. She went on to offer encouragement for a concern that had recently presented itself in our family.

I choked back a cry, too worn out to call her back, but so grateful for this friend who always seemed to remember the little things. As the day went on and I felt stronger, I called her back, and the warmth of her words flooded me once again. I hung up encouraged and feeling better than I had before her call.

I told my sister later that week how I felt a bit embarrassed by how often Jen had been reaching out to me lately and how I felt like I’d not been there for her in the same way.

“That’s okay,” Kristin responded. “Sometimes we’re the friend supporting others, and sometimes we’re in a season where we’re the one needing a friend. Jen understands this and wants to be there for you right now. So let her.”

I nodded agreement, knowing her words to be true.

Sometimes it’s hard to be the one needing a friend. If you’re like me, I love to help others but feel a little uneasy when I am the one in need. It doesn’t have to be this way. We are supposed to share each other’s burdens. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support from your friends when you need it.

— Kendra

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Contact a friend and honestly tell them about what is going on in your life. Let them share the burden with you.