Day 33 of 40 Days of Lent: The Ministry of Friendship and Partnership

Beautiful imagery by @Koolshooters from City of Angels

Scripture Focus

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” — Proverbs 17:17 (NIV)

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 (NIV)

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2 (NIV)

Reflection

Lent calls us into deeper reflection—not only with God but with each other. In a season that reminds us of sacrifice, repentance, and renewal, it also challenges us to become more intentional about the relationships we hold dear.

Friendship and partnership are spiritual assignments. They are not just about companionship—they are about mutual edification, accountability, and healing. Whether you are showing up for a friend, a spouse, a business partner, or a sibling in faith, you are being invited to carry the weight of love with care and humility.

To be a good friend or partner is to be Christ-like in posture: listening when it's easier to speak, showing up when it's inconvenient, and loving without keeping score. It's about being a shelter, a mirror, and sometimes even a gentle but firm truth-teller.

Marks of a Godly Friend and Partner

1. Present and Prayerful Show up when it matters—and when it doesn’t. Being present isn’t always about physical proximity; it’s about spiritual availability. Pray for them when they don't ask. Stand in the gap.

2. Honest and Humble Speak the truth in love. Godly friendship isn't about agreeing with everything—it’s about honoring the truth enough to share it with grace.

3. Forgiving and Flexible Even good friends will fail each other. Be quick to forgive and slow to take offense. Give others the room to grow as you want them to give you.

4. Faithful and Fruitful Good partnership multiplies blessing. Two people rooted in God can create spiritual synergy—where burdens are shared and dreams are accelerated.

Prayer for Godly Friendship:

Lord, Thank You for the gift of connection. Teach me to be a faithful friend, a loving partner, and a wise companion. Where I am selfish, stretch me. Where I am impatient, still me. Let me carry love the way You carry me—Not for applause, but because it reflects You. In all my relationships, may I bring peace, truth, and light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Lenten Reflection Questions

• How can you show up more intentionally for someone in your life this week?

• Are there areas where pride or neglect have harmed your friendships or partnerships?

• What does God want to teach you through the people He’s placed in your life?

Lenten Action Step

Reach out to someone you value. Call, text, or send a prayer their way—not to ask for anything, but to check on their heart and let them know they matter to you.

Final Word

Being a good friend or partner isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present. It’s about being prayerful. It’s about becoming more like Christ in how you love, support, and speak life into others.

Because love—real, godly love—is a ministry. And you are anointed to share it.

xoxo,