Read:

1 John 4:20 “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.”

Romans 12:10 “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

John 11:33-35 “When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. ‘Where have you laid him?’ He asked.

‘Come and see, Lord,’ they replied. Jesus wept.”

Think:

“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.”

• Martin Luther King, Jr.

Phileo love is also known as brotherly love. It is a kind love, a purposeful love, that puts others first. It involves sharing their troubles, joining in on their joys, and cultivating intentional community.

Phileo love is used in the biblical story concerning the raising of Lazarus. There, we are told that Jesus cried at the sight of Mary and others weeping over the death of Lazarus (John 11:33-35). One witness in the passage pointed out the depth of Jesus’ love for Lazarus by using a form of the word phileo to proclaim, “See how He loved him!” (John 11:36).

Phileo love esteems others above ourselves This kind of love comforts, prays for others, listens well. This kind of love will cement a relationship over time; this love will bond a friendship over the years.

Application:

Be the friend you would like to have. Show true concern and listen to your friends. Active listening includes eye contact, focus, attention. Your actions speak louder than your words.

Pray:

Dear Jesus, You said to encourage each other; help me love my friends in ways that will help them grow stronger. Help me to be a blessing to my friends today. Amen.