"A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24). He is most blessed who has such a friend.
The life of the redeemed is a transformed life by the power of God. Every sinner saved by grace should, to some extent, receive affirmation about God's grace in their life from their brothers in Christ. Remember, God's grace is undeserved merit and given freely to those who should receive harsh and just punishment if it were not for the substitutionary death and suffering of Jesus Christ. When we all stand before God as the souls of righteous men made perfect, we will fully understand that all good that comes through our lives is from God.
The Affirmation
"There are few times in a man's life where his written Word needs to reflect love and honor. For me, this is one of those times.
When I test the tapestry of your counsel, I realize the Word of God is the fabric. When your counsel is outside of my wants, there is the harsh sting of brokenness. And all the while, the hand of God is guiding me onto His path.
There are many who are called, few understand. Fewer still, walk. It is a true joy to find your best friend walking with God, living his life accordingly. I find myself drawn to a place where few are willing to go. Looking back, I see the wreckage of my past life. Looking up, I see the Cross-, and the grace of Jesus Christ. It's not until I look at today in the mirror of your eyes that I see Jesus in me.
______, I want you to know the deep-rooted appreciation I have for your love and guidance, for taking the risk of being hurt and investing a piece of yourself into my life, loving me to death. You have taught me to keep my eyes on the cross, to question all guidance against the Word, and give all the glory to God. I hold this precept close, though I never want to lose sight of those who invest their time and patience in me.
Your door has always been open; your time spent freely, willing to counsel at the slightest hint of need. Your love has taught me the meaning of a brother in Christ. Thank you for your discipline when I stumble, your hug when I am broken, and the intimate sharing of your joy and sorrow.
These words I write thru my tearing eyes for you to enjoy this day, knowing your greatest rewards are written down and stored in God's heart to be presented to you in Heaven.
Love your brother in Christ. _____"
Are you doing your part, in Paul's words, "Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, in my flesh, I am supplementing what is lacking in Christ's afflictions on behalf of His body, which is the Church?" (Colossians 1:24) His statement has nothing to do with suffering for sin but the sacrifices we make discipling the brethren through word and deed.
Giving ourselves to serve others out of gratitude to Christ is hardly an affliction. Paul's case meant going into a hostile world to fulfill the Great Commission to make disciples. Did Jesus suffer any less for us? Who knows what the future may bring, right where we are.
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