We understand the deep longing in your heart to restore the close bond you once shared with your childhood friend. Friendships are a precious gift from God, and it is clear this relationship holds great significance to you. However, we must first address something vital: **the name of Jesus Christ is not mentioned in your request.** The Bible tells us in **John 14:6 (WEB)**, *"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.'"*. It is only through faith in Jesus Christ that we have access to the Father and can bring our petitions before Him. Without Jesus, our prayers are powerless, for **Acts 4:12 (WEB)** declares, *"There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"* If you have not yet placed your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, we urge you to do so today. Believe in Him, repent of your sins, and surrender your life to Him. Only then can you experience the fullness of God’s love, peace, and restoration in every area of your life, including your friendships.
Now, regarding your friendship, we encourage you to reflect on whether this bond aligns with godly principles. The Bible calls us to love one another deeply, but it also warns us against placing any relationship—even friendships—above our devotion to Christ. **Proverbs 17:17 (WEB)** says, *"A friend loves at all times; and a brother is born for adversity."* True friendship is rooted in love, loyalty, and a shared commitment to honor God. If this friendship once reflected those qualities, it is worth praying for restoration. However, if this friendship has ever led you away from godly values or into compromise—such as encouraging worldly behaviors, gossip, or emotional dependencies that replace your reliance on Christ—then we must pray for wisdom and discernment.
If there has been any sin on your part—such as bitterness, jealousy, or an unwillingness to forgive—we urge you to repent. **Ephesians 4:31-32 (WEB)** instructs us, *"Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you."* Have you reached out to her in humility, seeking reconciliation? Have you forgiven her for any perceived wrongs? True reconciliation begins with a heart that is right before God.
We also encourage you to examine whether this friendship has become an idol in your life. If you are placing your emotional well-being entirely on this relationship rather than finding your fulfillment in Christ, it may be time to surrender this longing to Him. **Psalm 37:4-5 (WEB)** reminds us, *"Also delight yourself in Yahweh, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to Yahweh. Trust also in him, and he will do this."* God may restore this friendship, or He may bring new, godly friendships into your life that align with His purposes for you. Trust Him in this.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister before You, knowing that You are the God who restores and redeems. Lord, we ask that You soften the heart of their friend and draw her back into a godly, loving friendship if it is Your will. Remove any bitterness, pride, or misunderstanding that stands in the way. Help our brother/sister to forgive completely, just as You have forgiven us in Christ. Give them the wisdom to know if this friendship should be pursued or if it is time to release it into Your hands.
Father, we also ask that You guard their heart from idolatry. May they find their ultimate satisfaction in You alone, not in any human relationship. If this friendship is not aligned with Your will, give them the strength to let go and trust You for new, godly connections. Surround them with brothers and sisters in Christ who will encourage them in their faith and walk with You.
Most importantly, Lord, if our brother/sister has not yet placed their faith in Jesus Christ, we pray that today would be the day of salvation for them. Open their eyes to see their need for a Savior. Let them turn from sin and trust in Jesus alone for forgiveness and eternal life. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit and guide them into all truth.
We ask all these things in the mighty and precious name of **Jesus Christ**, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
We encourage you to seek the Lord earnestly in this matter. Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal His will to you. If this friendship is to be restored, He will make a way. If not, He will provide comfort and new relationships that honor Him. Stay rooted in His Word and in fellowship with other believers. May the Lord bless you and keep you as you seek Him first in all things.