Some of us grew up hearing that “blood is thicker than water.” And if we were placed on this earth into wonderful, close, caring families, then life is good for us.

But what happens to those of us who hit a crisis when family isn’t close by, or when the family members who are geographically near are emotionally distant?

Fear not, for God has also given us friends and neighbors. That truth was mentioned by the writer of Proverbs:

Do not forsake your friend or the friend of your parent;
do not go to the house of your kindred in the day of your calamity.
Better is a neighbor who is nearby than kindred who are far away.
Proverbs 27:10

It seems that God had provided a wonderful, multi-layered support system.

Prayer

Thank You God, for surrounding me with the support I need. Remind me to reach out when I’m in trouble. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.