"I Thank God for You"

I have been blessed to have people in my life, past and present, who in their own unique ways have added, and continue to add, measures of richness to my life that has blessed me tremendously. When I think of these people I do so in ways that often make me smile, and at times, with mixed emotions. Some of the lessons learnt over the years have been invaluable, and in the hustle and bustle of everyday living they have served me well in many different ways.

These thoughts came to mind as I reflected on a couple of Paul's salutations to his friends. To the Philippians he writes, "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy" (1:3, 4), and to Philemon, "I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers" (1:4). Friends that cross our paths through divine appointments are priceless. Whether for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, these are the people who usually see us at our best and often times at our worse. They are always thinking of us and even without always knowing what is going on at any given moment, they are often holding us up in prayer. Our greatest joy is their greatest delight, and when we are bruised and wounded by life's events, we can count on them to be there in our hours of need.

Someone once said, "A friend is one who strengthens you with prayers, blesses you with love, and encourages you with hope." There is a lot of truth in that statement, and I believe this was some of what the Apostle experienced with those he addressed, prayed for, loved, and encouraged. People who bring out the best of who we are and who are delightful to be around for all the right reasons. Do you have proven friends like that? Today is as good a time as any to send them a note to say "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you ... making mention of you always in my prayers." And while you're at it, make sure to really thank God for them.