Thankful for My Friends

Hey, carpool crew. Maybe you're thinking about that friend you're gonna see in class, or the person you're gonna be hanging out with out on the recess field no matter what. I'm Pastor Justin, and I'm so glad you're here. And today we're gonna talk about something that makes life way more fun, way more meaningful, and sometimes a little louder. Our friends. Friends are one of the best gifts God gives us. They make us laugh. They help us when we're sad. They forgive us when we mess up, and when we find good friends, the kind who love like Jesus loves, they remind us what God's love really looks like. In Proverbs chapter 17, verse 17, it says, a friend loves at all times and a brother is born for a difficult time. The book of Proverbs is full of short, powerful sayings, sayings that teach us how to live wisely. This one in chapter 17 reminds us that true friendship isn't just about fun or convenience. It's about being there when life gets hard. Back in Bible times, friendships were a lot like family. People relied on each other for safety, food and support. A good friend was someone you could count on no matter what. If Jesus were sitting in the car with you or at the table for breakfast, I think he'd say something like, be thankful for your friends, the ones who love you, forgive you and help you become the person I made you to be. And remember, I want you to be that kind of friend to others too. He might remind you that he called his disciples his friends, not because they were perfect, but because they stuck with him and loved him. Think about your friends, the ones you sit with at lunch, play with after school or laugh with at church. Good friends forgive when someone says something wrong, they cheer for you when you win and they cheer you up when you don't. And the best friendships, they help you both grow closer to Jesus. If you have a friend like that, thank God for them. And if you don't yet, pray that God will bring one your way. So how can you live this out today? First, say it out loud. Tell one friend today, hey, I'm really thankful for you. It might feel awkward, especially if you've never done it, but I promise you it will mean a lot to them. Second, show it through kindness. Do something nice for your friends this week. Help them with homework. Share a snack with them. Make sure they're included at recess, or just listen when they need to talk. True friends are one of the biggest blessings God gives us. And when we love our friends well, we're showing them a glimpse of Jesus's love too. So today, let's thank God for the people who make life better, and ask him to help us be the kind of friend who does the same for someone else. Remember, no matter where you are or how you're listening, God loves you. Before you go, let's answer this question together. Who's a friend you are really thankful for, and how can you show them this week that you care about them? I'll see you tomorrow on carpooling with Jesus.