Looking for that much-needed catch-up call with a friend?

With your busy schedule and demanding social calendar, sometimes all you need is a refreshing call with a gal pal to feel right as rain. Consider this your weekly check-in! 

That's what sisters in Christ do—we encourage one another through acts of service and words of affirmation to grow in our faith or simply make it through the day. Our friends are a huge blessing to us. Why not show them some love?

Here are 5 ways to uplift your Christian gal pals right here, right now.

1. Be That Listening Ear 

"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." ~ James 1:19

Sure, there's a lot we can do for our friends. The list is endless! 

Think of how Jesus treated others. He certainly had a lot to say, but He also was the ultimate source of comfort for those who were hurting. He thoughtfully listened and replied with wisdom and forethought. We can take a page out of Jesus' book here and love our friends in this very simple, very effective way. 

Sometimes, the most powerful gesture of love is the open, peaceful presence of a friend.

Be there for them. If they're having a rough day or are experiencing some sort of trauma, sit with them in their grief. This is what we are to do—carry one another's burdens in this way to provide rest and assurance. 

Remember, you're not called to be an expert in response to all of life's problems. You're not expected to have the perfect answer to your friends' questions. You're simply called to sit with them and share the full emotions of the moment with them.

2. Remind Them of Their Heavenly Calling

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." ~ 2 Timothy 3:16

Life's stressful. That's why daily reminders from Scripture can be a much-needed break in an already hectic day. 

Consider sending verses of the day (or even sharing our own LiF daily devotionals that we send out via email). These are quick, oh-so-easy reminders for your friend to cherish and remember God's plan for their life. You want to be that friend who's always there for them—with their favorite food in hand and reassuring Bible verse on top of mind. 

After all, isn't that what sisterhood's all about?

3. Find Tangible Ways to Serve

 "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’" ~ Acts 20:35

Cards, flowers, a delivery of their favorite coffee drink. These are simple ways to show your friend you care. This could also look like day-to-day errands like picking them up from the airport or grabbing them some extra groceries while you're out. 

What matters is you consciously thinking of ways to serve them and bring them joy. 

There's no better feeling than helping your friends feel a little better about their day, even through a small act of kindness. God loves them more than you could ever imagine, and as their friend it is your job to help remind them of His love.

4. Surprise Them With New Memories 

Surprise and delight your pals with little things they love, like a weekend girl's trip or movie night. 

It's these seemingly ordinary, happy events that make up our life. Why not measure your year in Bible study nights, cups of coffee shared, and sunrise walks with your neighbors, admiring God's creation?

There's something to be said here for spontaneity. Spice up your regular routine and plan to make some new memories alongside those you love.

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5. Add Them to Your Daily Prayer

 "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." ~ Romans 12:12

 A praying friend is the best friend! The ultimate demonstration of love is lifting them up in your daily prayers, bringing their requests to God. Even if you don't know specifically what they need, that's okay. God knows and that's all that matters.

 While this seems like a no-brainer, you'd be surprised how often such a simple step is overlooked. Just as you pray to God for your daily bread, asking Him for what you need to make it through the day, pray that God may satiate your friend, too—that He would provide for them in whatever way they need.

You have a real opportunity to be a prayer warrior.

Think of Jesus in John 17 and how He passionately prayed for His disciples. He prayed that their eyes may be opened to the truth, and that God may protect them. This is the example we're to follow, too. 

He Is Always Enough

Jesus is the ultimate friend and comforter. While we may fall short sometimes and we'll love our friends imperfectly, we can always count on Jesus to show us how it's really done. I encourage you to jump into Scripture and continue to study His life and teachings. Of course, be sure to check out our Christian t-shirts and accessories—perfect for those end-of-summer friendship adventures!