MONTH 2 - WEEK 2

The Friend I Want to Become

Theme

Before Looking for Godly Friends...Become One

Weekly Memory Verse

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Morning Devotion

One of the greatest gifts God gives us is friendship.

One of the greatest things addiction steals is trust.

Many of us entered recovery carrying broken relationships.

Some people walked away.

Some couldn't trust us anymore.

Some we couldn't trust.

Sometimes we even stopped trusting ourselves.

Then Jesus began rebuilding our lives.

One brick at a time.

Now God begins rebuilding something else.

Relationships.

Most people pray,

"Lord, send me good friends."

But perhaps a better prayer is,

"Lord, help me become the kind of friend someone else needs."

Jesus didn't wait for perfect people before loving them.

He loved fishermen.

Tax collectors.

Doubters.

People with rough backgrounds.

People who failed Him.

People who misunderstood Him.

People who eventually abandoned Him.

Yet He continued loving them.

That's friendship.

Being a Christian friend doesn't mean you're perfect.

It means you're faithful.

Faithful to pray.

Faithful to listen.

Faithful to forgive.

Faithful to encourage.

Faithful to tell the truth with love.

As God changes you...

people should begin feeling safer around you.

Not because you have all the answers.

Because they know you genuinely care.

Bible Study

Main Passage

John 15:12–17

Read Jesus' words about friendship.

Notice that He no longer called His disciples servants.

He called them friends.

Friendship is built on love, trust, sacrifice, and commitment.

Supporting Scriptures

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times."

Ecclesiastes 4:9–10

"Two are better than one... If either of them falls, one can help the other up."

Proverbs 27:17

"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

Romans 12:10

"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."

Bible Study Questions

Why did Jesus call His disciples friends?
What qualities make a friendship healthy?
Why does God place believers together?
What does "iron sharpens iron" mean?
How can I become someone who strengthens others?

Personal Reflection

Answer honestly.

The best friend I ever had was...

Why were they such a good friend?

What qualities do I admire most in a friend?

Which of those qualities do I need to develop?

Life Application

Today, don't ask,

"Who is going to encourage me?"

Instead ask,

"Who can I encourage today?"

A smile.

A handshake.

A text message.

A prayer.

A kind word.

God often changes another person's day through simple acts of kindness.

Homework

Part One – Friendship Inventory

Rate yourself from 1–5.

Do I...

☐ Listen well?

☐ Keep my word?

☐ Pray for my friends?

☐ Encourage others?

☐ Show up when people need me?

☐ Keep confidences?

☐ Forgive quickly?

☐ Speak kindly?

Which area needs the most growth?

Write one page about it.

Part Two – Becoming the Friend

Write two columns.

The Friend I Used to Be

How did addiction affect your friendships?

Were you dependable?

Did you isolate?

Did you break promises?

Did you manipulate?

Be honest.

The Friend God Is Making Me

What changes do you already see?

What kind of friend do you hope to become?

Part Three – Encourage Someone

Choose one person today.

Call them.

Text them.

Write them a note.

Tell them one specific reason you appreciate them.

Do not expect anything in return.

Kingdom Exercise

Friendship Mirror

Stand in front of a mirror.

Ask yourself:

"If I met someone exactly like me today...

would I want them as my closest Christian friend?"

Why or why not?

Write your answer.

Prayer

Father,

Thank You for the people You have placed in my life.

Thank You for never giving up on me, even when I was difficult to love.

Teach me to become the kind of friend who reflects the heart of Jesus.

Help me to listen with compassion, speak with kindness, forgive quickly, and remain faithful.

Remove selfishness, pride, and fear from my heart.

Help me become someone who encourages others instead of discouraging them.

May people feel Your love when they spend time with me.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Devil's Tactic

"Nobody can be trusted."

God's Truth

"Two are better than one... If either falls, one can help the other up." (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10)

Evening Reflection

Before going to bed...

Who did I encourage today?
Did I listen more than I spoke?
Was I dependable today?
What quality of Christ did I show someone else?
How is God changing the way I build friendships?

Weekly Project

My Friendship Journal

This week, create a section in your notebook titled:

"The Friends God Is Bringing Into My Life."

For each new person you meet, write:

Their name.
How you met.
One thing you learned about them.
One strength you noticed.
One way you can pray for them.
One way you can encourage them this week.

S2C Principle

Healthy Christian friendships are not built by finding perfect people. They are built by becoming a faithful friend, one conversation, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.

Learning to Listen

Theme

Listening Is One of the Greatest Acts of Love

Weekly Memory Verse

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Today's Memory Verse

James 1:19

"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

Morning Devotion

Most people think communication begins with talking.

Jesus showed us that communication begins with listening.

Think about your own life.

How many times have you walked away from a conversation thinking,

"I don't think they really heard me."

Being heard is one of the deepest human needs.

During addiction, many of us became experts at talking.

We explained.

We defended.

We blamed.

We hid.

We promised.

We manipulated.

But healthy relationships are built differently.

Healthy friendships begin when someone feels safe enough to tell their story because they know you are truly listening.

Jesus often asked questions even though He already knew the answers.

"Who do you say that I am?"

"What do you want Me to do for you?"

"Do you want to be made well?"

He wasn't gathering information.

He was giving people dignity.

When you listen, you're telling someone,

"You matter."

Listening doesn't mean you always have the answer.

It means you're willing to carry part of someone else's burden.

One of the greatest gifts you can give another person is your full attention.

Bible Study

Main Passage

Luke 24:13–35

Read about Jesus walking with the two disciples on the road to Emmaus.

Notice what Jesus did first.

He listened.

He asked questions.

He allowed them to speak before He began teaching.

Supporting Scriptures

James 1:19

"Be quick to listen, slow to speak."

Proverbs 18:13

"To answer before listening—that is folly and shame."

Proverbs 20:5

"The purposes of a person's heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out."

Romans 12:15

"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."

Bible Study Questions

Why did Jesus ask questions even though He knew the answers?
What happened after the disciples shared their hearts?
Why is listening an act of love?
What happens when we answer before understanding?
How can listening strengthen a friendship?

Personal Reflection

Answer honestly.

When someone is talking...

Do I interrupt?

☐ Often

☐ Sometimes

☐ Rarely

☐ Never

Do I begin thinking about my answer before they finish speaking?

Do I enjoy listening...

or do I enjoy talking more?

When was the last time someone truly listened to me?

How did it make me feel?

Life Application

Today, practice the ministry of listening.

During one conversation:

Don't interrupt.
Don't immediately tell your own story.
Don't try to solve every problem.
Don't change the subject.

Simply listen.

Ask another question.

Allow silence if needed.

Sometimes people need space to finish their thoughts.

Homework

Part One – The Fifteen-Minute Challenge

Choose one person today.

Spend at least fifteen minutes listening to them.

Your goal is not to teach.

Your goal is not to fix.

Your goal is to understand.

Afterward write:

What surprised me?
What did I learn about them?
What emotions did I hear?
How can I pray for them?

Part Two – My Listening Habits

Write two columns.

Habits I Need to Leave Behind

Examples:

Interrupting

Talking over people

Giving advice too quickly

Changing the subject

Thinking about myself while others speak

Habits I Want to Build

Listening patiently

Asking thoughtful questions

Making eye contact

Showing compassion

Praying before responding

Part Three – Read Body Language

During church or a meeting today, quietly observe people.

Who looks lonely?

Who seems joyful?

Who may need encouragement?

Pray silently for them.

Sometimes listening begins before a single word is spoken.

Kingdom Exercise

The Three-Question Rule

The next time you meet someone new, ask three questions before telling your own story.

Examples:

How long have you been coming here?
What do you enjoy most about this church?
How did you come to know Jesus?

Write what you learned.

Prayer

Father,

Thank You for always listening when I pray.

Teach me to listen to others the way You listen to me.

Help me slow down, pay attention, and value people more than my own words.

Give me wisdom to know when to speak and when to remain quiet.

Use my ears as much as my mouth to build friendships that honor You.

May people feel loved because I truly hear them.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Devil's Tactic

"People only matter when they're listening to you."

God's Truth

"Be quick to listen, slow to speak." (James 1:19)

Evening Reflection

Before bed...

Who did I truly listen to today?
Did I interrupt anyone?
What did I learn about another person's heart?
Did listening help me understand someone better?
How did I reflect the love of Christ today?

Weekly Friendship Journal

Add today's conversation to your journal.

Record:

The person's name.
Three things you learned about them.
One prayer request they shared.
One quality you admire in them.
One way you can encourage them this week.

S2C Principle

People may forget what you said, but they rarely forget how you made them feel. A listening heart often opens doors that words alone never could.

Building God's House

Every healthy home has a living room.

It isn't built for speeches.

It's built for conversations.

It's where people laugh.

Cry.

Share memories.

Pray together.

Listen to one another.

God wants your heart to become that kind of place.

A place where people feel safe enough to be honest.

A place where they know they will be heard.

Because when people are truly heard...

they begin to heal.

And healing is one of the greatest gifts a Christian friend can offer.

Words That Build

Theme

My Words Can Bring Life or Death

Weekly Memory Verse

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Today's Memory Verse

Ephesians 4:29

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

Morning Devotion

Words are powerful.

A few careless words can damage a relationship.

One encouraging sentence can change someone's entire day.

Many of us grew up around criticism.

Some grew up around yelling.

Some heard,

"You'll never amount to anything."

"You'll never change."

"You're just like your father."

"You're a failure."

Eventually...

we began believing those words.

Then Jesus spoke.

He didn't call fishermen failures.

He called them disciples.

He didn't call Peter a quitter.

He called him a rock.

He didn't see Matthew as just a tax collector.

He saw an apostle.

Jesus saw who people could become.

Now He asks us to speak that same way.

Imagine if every conversation left people feeling encouraged.

Imagine if your words made people feel stronger instead of weaker.

Imagine if your family knew they would hear kindness when you spoke.

That is the work of the Holy Spirit.

A Christian doesn't simply avoid bad language.

A Christian learns to speak life.

Bible Study

Main Passage

Ephesians 4:25–32

Read the entire passage.

Notice how Paul connects words with the condition of our heart.

Healthy words come from a heart that is being transformed by Christ.

Supporting Scriptures

Proverbs 18:21

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue."

Colossians 4:6

"Let your conversation be always full of grace..."

Proverbs 15:1

"A gentle answer turns away wrath..."

James 3:5–10

The tongue has great power for good or harm.

Bible Study Questions

Why does Paul tell believers to build others up?
What kinds of words tear people down?
What kinds of words bring healing?
Why is encouragement so important?
How can your words reflect the character of Jesus?

Personal Reflection

Think honestly.

When I become frustrated...

I usually...

☐ Raise my voice.

☐ Become sarcastic.

☐ Shut down.

☐ Criticize.

☐ Stay silent.

☐ Pray before speaking.

What kind of words did I hear growing up?

What kind of words do I want my family to remember me for?

Life Application

Today, make this commitment:

Before you speak, ask yourself three questions.

Is it true?

Is it loving?

Is it helpful?

If the answer is "no" to any of them...

wait.

Sometimes the most Christ-like words are the ones we choose not to say.

Homework

Part One – Speak Life

Today encourage five different people.

Not general compliments.

Specific encouragement.

Examples:

"I appreciate how faithfully you serve."

"I noticed your kindness."

"Thank you for always making people feel welcome."

Write down how each person responded.

Part Two – My Words Inventory

Draw two columns.

Words I Need to Leave Behind

Examples:

Complaining

Sarcasm

Criticism

Gossip

Interrupting

Negative self-talk

Blaming

Words I Want to Speak More Often

Thank you.

I'm praying for you.

I appreciate you.

Can I help?

I'm sorry.

I forgive you.

How are you doing?

God loves you.

Part Three – The Twenty-Four Hour Challenge

For the next twenty-four hours:

No gossip.

No complaining.

No criticism.

No tearing yourself down.

If you fail...

Stop.

Pray.

Start again.

Kingdom Exercise

Becoming a Barnabas

Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement."

Read Acts 9:26–28.

Notice how Barnabas believed in Saul when almost no one else did.

Ask yourself:

Who needs someone to believe in them today?

Write their name.

Pray for them.

Encourage them.

Prayer

Father,

Thank You for speaking life into me.

Thank You for calling me Your child when I didn't deserve it.

Teach me to use my words the way Jesus used His.

Guard my mouth from gossip, anger, sarcasm, and criticism.

Fill my heart with grace so that my words encourage, heal, and strengthen those around me.

May every conversation point people toward You.

Help me become someone whose words bring hope instead of hurt.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Devil's Tactic

"Your words don't really matter."

God's Truth

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue." (Proverbs 18:21)

Evening Reflection

Before bed...

Did my words encourage someone today?
Did I complain?
Did I gossip?
Did I apologize if my words hurt someone?
Who did I build up today?

Weekly Friendship Journal

Add today's experiences.

Write:

Five people you encouraged.
Their reaction.
One conversation that brought life.
One conversation you wish you had handled differently.
What God taught you about the power of your words.

S2C Principle

The words you speak today may become the voice someone hears in their mind tomorrow. Choose words that sound like Jesus.

Building God's House

Every healthy home has conversations.

Children remember them.

Spouses are shaped by them.

Friends are strengthened by them.

Homes are built—or broken—one conversation at a time.

God wants your home, your friendships, and your church family to become places where people leave feeling stronger because they spent time with you.

A life transformed by Christ is heard not only in the prayers we pray...

but in the words we choose every day.

Choosing Healthy Friendships

Theme

Love Everyone. Trust Wisely.

Weekly Memory Verse

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Today's Memory Verse

Proverbs 13:20

"Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."

Morning Devotion

One of the greatest blessings God gives us is friendship.

One of the greatest responsibilities He gives us is choosing those friendships wisely.

Many of us entered recovery with broken friendships.

Some encouraged our addiction.

Some pulled us farther from God.

Some disappeared when life became difficult.

Now God is teaching us to build relationships on a new foundation.

The Bible never tells us to isolate ourselves.

It also never tells us to trust everyone the same way.

There is a difference between loving someone and allowing them to influence your life.

Jesus loved everyone.

But He had different levels of relationship.

He ministered to the crowds.

He taught the seventy-two.

He invested deeply in the twelve disciples.

Within the twelve, Peter, James, and John shared even closer moments with Him.

Jesus loved every person equally, yet He wisely chose who walked closely beside Him.

As followers of Christ, we are called to love everyone.

But we must also ask,

Who is helping me grow closer to Jesus?

Healthy friends encourage your faith.

They tell you the truth in love.

They pray with you.

They celebrate your victories.

They lovingly challenge you when you're heading in the wrong direction.

Healthy friendships don't pull you away from Christ.

They walk beside you toward Him.

Bible Study

Main Passage

Proverbs 13:20

Read the verse several times.

Notice the promise and the warning.

The people we walk with influence the people we become.

Supporting Scriptures

1 Corinthians 15:33

"Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'"

Proverbs 27:17

"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

John 2:24–25

Jesus did not entrust Himself to everyone because He knew what was in their hearts.

Psalm 1:1–3

The blessed person is careful about the influences they allow into their life.

Bible Study Questions

What does Proverbs 13:20 teach about friendship?
Why is influence so powerful?
What qualities should you look for in a Christian friend?
Why did Jesus choose close disciples?
How can you love everyone without trusting everyone equally?

Personal Reflection

Answer honestly.

Who has influenced me the most in my life?

Did that influence bring me closer to God or farther away?

What qualities do I want in my closest Christian friends?

Am I becoming that kind of friend myself?

Life Application

As you meet people at church, remember this:

Be kind to everyone.

Respect everyone.

Pray for everyone.

But allow trust to grow over time.

Trust is built through consistency.

Faithfulness.

Honesty.

Humility.

The strongest friendships are not rushed.

They are built.

Homework

Part One – Friendship Inventory

Write the names of five people who positively influence your walk with Christ.

Beside each name write:

What godly quality do I see in them?
What have I learned from them?
How do they encourage my faith?

Part Two – Healthy Friendship Checklist

Write two columns.

A Healthy Friend...

Keeps their word.
Points me toward Christ.
Tells the truth with love.
Encourages me.
Respects boundaries.
Prays with me.
Celebrates my victories.
Corrects me with humility.

An Unhealthy Friend...

Encourages sin.
Lies.
Manipulates.
Constantly gossips.
Pulls me away from church.
Refuses correction.
Creates division.
Makes me feel guilty for following Christ.

Which list describes the people closest to you?

Part Three – Pray for Wisdom

Ask God to show you one mature believer you can learn from.

Pray for that person every day this week.

Watch how God begins building that relationship naturally.

Kingdom Exercise

My Circle of Influence

Draw three circles.

Circle One

Jesus

Write His name in the center.

Circle Two

The people who help you grow spiritually.

Mentor.

Sponsor.

Pastor.

Mature Christian friends.

Circle Three

People you are called to love, encourage, and pray for.

Notice that not everyone belongs in the same circle.

Prayer

Father,

Thank You for placing people in my life.

Give me wisdom to choose friendships that strengthen my walk with You.

Help me love every person with the love of Christ while using the discernment You have given me.

Teach me not to rush trust, but to build relationships on honesty, faithfulness, and truth.

Help me become the kind of friend who encourages others to know You more deeply.

Surround me with people who will help me grow in faith, humility, and love.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Devil's Tactic

"Everyone deserves the same level of influence in your life."

God's Truth

"Walk with the wise and become wise." (Proverbs 13:20)

Evening Reflection

Before bed...

Who influenced me today?
Did my conversations draw me closer to Christ?
What qualities did I notice in mature believers?
Am I becoming the kind of friend I hope to have?
What friendship can I place in God's hands tonight?

Weekly Friendship Journal

Today's entry:

One person who encouraged my faith.
One godly quality I admired in them.
One lesson I learned about healthy friendships.
One prayer asking God for wisdom in choosing close friends.

S2C Principle

A Christian loves everyone, but not everyone should shape a Christian's life. Wisdom isn't measured by how many friends you have, but by who is helping you become more like Jesus.

Building God's House

Every healthy home has a front door.

Not everyone who knocks moves into the house.

Guests are welcomed.

Friends are treasured.

Family is built over time.

God calls us to open our hearts with love, but He also calls us to guard them with wisdom.

As your walk with Christ grows, you'll learn that the strongest friendships are those centered on Jesus.

Those friendships become part of the foundation that helps your house remain strong through every season

Hospitality Changes Lives

Theme

Making Room for Others

Weekly Memory Verse

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Today's Memory Verse

Romans 12:13

"Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality."

Morning Devotion

When most people hear the word hospitality, they picture a spotless home, a perfectly prepared meal, or a beautifully decorated table.

The Bible paints a different picture.

Biblical hospitality isn't about impressing people.

It's about welcoming them.

Jesus welcomed people others ignored.

Children.

The sick.

The poor.

The lonely.

Tax collectors.

Sinners.

He made people feel seen.

He made people feel valued.

He made room for them.

Many of us lived years feeling like we didn't belong anywhere.

Addiction isolates.

Shame isolates.

Fear isolates.

But Jesus opens the door and says,

"Come in."

Now He asks us to do the same.

Hospitality begins long before someone walks through your front door.

It begins with a smile.

Remembering someone's name.

Saving a seat.

Inviting someone to join your conversation.

Offering a cup of coffee.

Praying with someone after church.

Calling someone who has been absent.

Helping someone carry groceries.

Hospitality simply says,

"I'm glad you're here."

You don't need a large house.

You need a welcoming heart.

Sometimes the greatest ministry isn't preaching a sermon.

It's making one lonely person feel like family.

Bible Study

Main Passage

Luke 19:1–10

Read the story of Zacchaeus.

Notice what Jesus did.

He invited Himself into Zacchaeus' home.

That simple act of acceptance changed an entire life.

Hospitality opened the door for transformation.

Supporting Scriptures

Hebrews 13:2

"Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers..."

Romans 12:13

"Practice hospitality."

1 Peter 4:9

"Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling."

Matthew 25:35

"I was a stranger and you invited Me in."

Bible Study Questions

Why was Zacchaeus surprised that Jesus wanted to visit him?
How did Jesus' acceptance change Zacchaeus?
Why does hospitality matter in God's Kingdom?
What are simple ways to practice hospitality?
How can welcoming others point people to Christ?

Personal Reflection

Think honestly.

When I walk into church...

Who usually notices me?

Who might be standing alone that I haven't noticed?

Have I ever felt forgotten?

How did that affect me?

How can I help someone else feel welcome this week?

Life Application

Today...

Look for someone standing alone.

Someone new.

Someone quiet.

Someone uncertain.

Walk over.

Smile.

Introduce yourself.

Invite them to sit with you.

Sometimes one simple invitation changes someone's entire church experience.

Homework

Part One – The Invitation Challenge

Invite one person to:

Coffee.
Lunch.
A church fellowship meal.
A walk.
Bible study.
Prayer before church.

The goal isn't entertainment.

The goal is connection.

Part Two – My Hospitality Journal

Answer these questions.

What makes me feel welcomed?

What makes me feel uncomfortable?

How can I create the kind of environment where others feel safe?

Part Three – Practice Hospitality

Choose three acts of hospitality today.

Examples:

☐ Smile at five people.

☐ Learn two new names.

☐ Hold a door open.

☐ Invite someone to sit with you.

☐ Introduce two people to each other.

☐ Send an encouraging text.

☐ Visit someone who has been absent.

☐ Pray with someone after church.

Write what happened.

Kingdom Exercise

Open Chair Ministry

Picture one empty chair beside you.

Ask yourself:

Who could be sitting there next Sunday?

Write one name.

Pray for that person all week.

If possible...

Invite them to church.

Prayer

Father,

Thank You for welcoming me into Your family.

Help me become someone who welcomes others with that same love.

Open my eyes to the lonely, the forgotten, and the hurting.

Teach me that hospitality is not about impressing people but about loving them.

Help me create room in my heart, my schedule, and my life for others.

May people experience Your kindness through my words, my smile, my home, and my actions.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Devil's Tactic

"Someone else will welcome them."

God's Truth

"Practice hospitality." (Romans 12:13)

Evening Reflection

Before bed...

Who did I welcome today?
Did I notice someone standing alone?
Did I make anyone feel included?
How did hospitality reflect the heart of Jesus?
What invitation can I extend this week?

Weekly Friendship Journal

Today's entry:

Who did I invite?
Who encouraged me?
Who did I make feel welcome?
What act of hospitality brought me the most joy?
What did God teach me about opening my life to others?

S2C Principle

Hospitality is love with an open door. You don't have to own a large home to have a welcoming heart. One invitation, one conversation, or one empty chair can become the beginning of someone's healing.

Building God's House

Every healthy home has a front porch.

It is where people are greeted before they ever enter the house.

Some people decide whether they feel welcome within the first few moments of arriving.

Your smile.

Your kindness.

Your willingness to say,

"Come sit with me."

may be the very thing God uses to keep someone from walking away.

Remember...

Jesus welcomed you before you ever knew Him.

Now He invites you to become the kind of person who helps others feel at home in His house.

Becoming an Encourager

Theme

Seeing What God Can Do in Others

Weekly Memory Verse

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Today's Memory Verse

1 Thessalonians 5:11

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

Morning Devotion

Think about the people who changed your life.

They probably weren't the loudest people.

They may not have preached sermons.

They may never have stood behind a pulpit.

But they believed in you.

They listened.

They prayed.

They encouraged you when you wanted to quit.

The Bible tells us about a man named Barnabas.

His name means "Son of Encouragement."

When Saul (later called Paul) became a Christian, many believers were afraid of him.

After all, Saul had persecuted Christians.

No one wanted to trust him.

But Barnabas saw something different.

He saw what God was doing.

He believed in a man that everyone else doubted.

Imagine if Barnabas had walked away.

Imagine if he had judged Saul only by his past.

How different history might have been.

Every church needs Barnabas.

Every recovery group needs Barnabas.

Every family needs Barnabas.

God isn't asking you to flatter people.

He's asking you to help people see what He is doing in their lives.

Encouragement isn't pretending everything is perfect.

It is reminding someone that God is still working.

Sometimes one encouraging sentence keeps someone from giving up.

Perhaps God wants you to become that voice.

Bible Study

Main Passage

Acts 9:26–28

Read how Barnabas welcomed Saul when others were afraid.

Notice that Barnabas didn't ignore Saul's past.

He believed God's grace was greater than Saul's past.

Supporting Scriptures

1 Thessalonians 5:11

"Encourage one another and build each other up."

Hebrews 10:24–25

"Consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."

Proverbs 12:25

"Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up."

Ephesians 4:29

"Speak only what is helpful for building others up."

Bible Study Questions

Why were the disciples afraid of Saul?
What did Barnabas see that others missed?
Why is encouragement so powerful?
How can one encouraging person change another person's future?
Who has encouraged your faith?

Personal Reflection

Answer honestly.

Who has encouraged me the most in my Christian walk?

What did they say or do?

Have I ever encouraged someone when they needed it?

Who needs encouragement from me today?

Life Application

Today, become someone's Barnabas.

Look for a person who may be discouraged.

Someone sitting alone.

Someone serving quietly.

Someone carrying a heavy burden.

Don't wait for someone else.

Walk over.

Speak hope.

Pray with them if they're willing.

Sometimes the greatest ministry is simply reminding someone:

"God isn't finished with you."

Homework

Part One – Barnabas Project

Encourage five different people today.

Not with general compliments.

Speak specifically.

Examples:

"I appreciate your faithfulness."

"I've noticed your kindness."

"I see how hard you work."

"Thank you for always welcoming people."

Record how each person responded.

Part Two – My Encouragement Letter

Write a one-page letter to someone who has made a difference in your life.

Tell them:

What they taught you.
How they encouraged you.
Why you're thankful for them.

If possible...

Give them the letter.

Part Three – Looking Through God's Eyes

Choose one person you struggle to understand.

Instead of focusing on their weaknesses...

Write five strengths you see in them.

Pray for them.

Ask God to help you love them as He does.

Kingdom Exercise

The Barnabas Challenge

For the next seven days...

Refuse to criticize.

Refuse to gossip.

Every day intentionally encourage one different person.

Keep a record in your journal.

At the end of the week answer:

How did encouraging others change me?

Prayer

Father,

Thank You for the people who encouraged me when I was weak.

Help me become that kind of person for someone else.

Open my eyes to those who need hope.

Give me words that strengthen instead of discourage.

Teach me to see people through the eyes of Your grace.

Help me believe in others the way Barnabas believed in Saul.

Use my life to remind people that You are still changing them.

May my words point others toward Jesus.

In His name,

Amen.

Devil's Tactic

"Someone else will encourage them."

God's Truth

"Encourage one another and build each other up." (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Evening Reflection

Before bed...

Who did I encourage today?
How did they respond?
Did I notice someone who needed hope?
Did I build people up with my words?
How did encouraging others strengthen my own faith?

Weekly Friendship Journal

Today's entry:

Five people I encouraged.
One conversation that touched my heart.
One person I want to continue praying for.
One lesson God taught me about encouragement.
One way I became more like Barnabas today.

S2C Principle

An encourager sees people the way Jesus sees them—not only for who they are today, but for who they can become through the grace of God.

Building God's House

Every healthy home has windows.

Windows let light into the house.

Encouragement is like opening a window.

It lets the light of Christ shine into someone's heart.

Darkness tells people they will never change.

The light of Christ reminds them that God is still at work.

Be the person who opens the window.

Let your words bring light, hope, and courage to others.

Because one encouraging voice can help someone keep walking with Jesus when they feel like giving up.

Weekly Review & Graduation

Building Godly Friendships

Theme

Growing Together in Christ

Weekly Memory Verse Review

Without looking, write this week's memory verse.

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Write it from memory.

Morning Devotion

Friendship is one of God's greatest gifts.

God never intended for you to walk through life alone.

This week He has been teaching you something much bigger than making friends.

He has been teaching you how to become one.

Jesus never looked for perfect friends.

He loved imperfect people.

He listened.

He encouraged.

He corrected with love.

He forgave.

He welcomed.

He served.

He stayed faithful.

As you become more like Jesus...

you become the kind of person others feel safe around.

Think back to the beginning of this week.

Has your heart changed?

Have you listened more carefully?

Have your words become more encouraging?

Have you begun praying for people instead of judging them?

Have you become more welcoming?

Have you begun choosing friendships wisely?

Remember...

Godly friendships don't happen overnight.

Like every healthy relationship, they are built one conversation, one prayer, one act of kindness, and one moment of faithfulness at a time.

The greatest friend you will ever have is Jesus.

The closer you walk with Him...

the better friend you will become to others.

Weekly Bible Study Review

Read these verses again.

John 15:12–17
James 1:19
Ephesians 4:29
Proverbs 13:20
Romans 12:13
1 Thessalonians 5:11

Write one sentence describing what each passage taught you about friendship.

Week Two Reflection

Day One

The Friend I Want to Become

What quality of a godly friend do I most want God to develop in me?

Day Two

Learning to Listen

What did I learn by listening instead of speaking?

Day Three

Words That Build

How did my words encourage someone this week?

Day Four

Choosing Healthy Friendships

What qualities do I now recognize as important in a close Christian friend?

Day Five

Hospitality Changes Lives

How did I make someone feel welcome?

Day Six

Becoming an Encourager

Who did I encourage?

How did it affect them?

Weekly Heart Check

Circle the statement that best describes you today.

☐ I mostly think about myself.

☐ I am beginning to notice the needs of others.

☐ I intentionally encourage others.

☐ I am becoming the kind of friend Jesus wants me to be.

Why did you choose that answer?

Weekly Homework Review

Place a check beside each completed assignment.

☐ Met someone new.

☐ Listened for at least fifteen minutes.

☐ Encouraged five people.

☐ Practiced hospitality.

☐ Learned someone's testimony.

☐ Prayed for another believer.

☐ Wrote in my Friendship Journal.

☐ Memorized Proverbs 17:17.

Kingdom Project

My Circle of Encouragement

Draw a large circle.

Write your name in the center.

Around your name write the people God has placed in your life.

Examples:

Family

Sponsor

Pastor

Church Friends

Bible Study

Recovery Group

Neighbors

Coworkers

Beside each name write one practical way you can encourage them this coming week.

Friendship Evaluation

Read each statement and honestly evaluate yourself.

I...

☐ Keep my word.

☐ Listen before speaking.

☐ Pray for my friends.

☐ Speak words that build others up.

☐ Forgive quickly.

☐ Welcome new people.

☐ Choose wise friendships.

☐ Encourage instead of criticize.

Which area needs the most growth?

Writing Assignment

Write one to two pages titled:

The Friend God Is Teaching Me to Become

Include:

What kind of friend I used to be.
What Jesus is changing in me.
What kind of friend I hope to become.
How I want others to experience Christ through my friendship.

Practical Challenge

This coming week...

Invite one person to coffee, lunch, or a walk.

Pray with one person.

Write one encouraging letter.

Call someone who may be lonely.

Introduce yourself to one new person at church.

Prayer

Father,

Thank You for every person You have brought into my life.

Thank You for teaching me that true friendship is built on love, humility, honesty, and faithfulness.

Help me become the kind of friend who reflects the heart of Jesus.

Teach me to listen well, encourage often, forgive quickly, and love without expecting anything in return.

Surround me with people who will help me grow closer to You.

Use my life to strengthen others and point them toward Christ.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Devil's Tactic

"You don't need anyone, and no one needs you."

God's Truth

"Two are better than one... If either of them falls, one can help the other up." (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10)

Graduation Certificate

SOBRIETY TO CHURCH

Month Two • Week Two

Building Godly Friendships

This week I learned:

✓ A godly friend reflects the love of Christ.

✓ Listening is an act of love.

✓ My words have the power to build others up.

✓ Healthy friendships require wisdom.

✓ Hospitality welcomes people into God's family.

✓ Encouragement gives hope to others.

✓ Jesus is my greatest example of friendship.

Student Signature:

Date:

Looking Ahead – Week Three

Next week we begin:

Rediscovering Joy

You will learn:

Healthy hobbies that honor God.
Enjoying God's creation.
Gratitude as a daily lifestyle.
Rest without guilt.
Creativity as a gift from God.
Finding joy in simple things.
Living beyond survival and beginning to truly enjoy the life God has given you.

S2C Kingdom Principle

Healthy friendships don't happen by accident. They are built when ordinary believers choose to love like Jesus—listening with compassion, speaking with grace, welcoming others, encouraging the discouraged, and remaining faithful through every season.

Building God's House

Every healthy home has more than walls.

It has people who laugh together.

Pray together.

Carry one another's burdens.

Celebrate victories.

Cry through losses.

Forgive mistakes.

And keep showing up.

That is God's design for His family.

As you continue building your spiritual house, remember that strong friendships are not decorations—they are support beams. They strengthen your walk with Christ and give you people to lean on when life becomes difficult.

This week, God wasn't just teaching you how to make friends. He was shaping you into a friend who reflects the heart of Jesus.