Jesus and the Gift of Friendship

“When my daughter was six years old, we moved cities. She had to leave all of her wonderful neighborhood friends, and it’s something we still grieve to this day. We’ve seen God answer our prayers for new friends, but it has taken some time—just like the child in this book. So it’s impossible for me to read this book without tears in my eyes as I see such a similar story play out. What a beautiful reminder that Jesus calls us friends. In those seasons when friendships are scarce, he sticks closer than a brother—and even provides the friends we need in his time! What a gift for kids to learn that they can entrust their need for friendship to the greatest friend of all.”

Quina Aragon

“Jesus and the Gift of Friendship is a theologically rich and engaging read for kids that will remind them that God is the giver of good gifts, listens when they pray, is always with them, and sent his Son so that they could be friends of God.”

Amy Gannett

“We all need friends. We know the joy they can bring, and we hope to help our children develop lasting friendships. Trillia Newbell’s Jesus and the Gift of Friendship is a warm and welcoming way to talk about the gift of friendship with our children, as well as the pain of loneliness. This book’s engaging story and beautiful illustrations will help children learn how to make good friends and be a good friend.”

Melissa B. Kruger

“Jesus and the Gift of Friendship teaches us about friendship, along with the important value of bringing all our desires to the Lord—and waiting on his answer! I love that Trillia Newbell’s book shows how the example of Jesus as friend is used as a model for our kids. Children will learn that, even in times of loneliness, God is compassionate toward our desire for community.”

Phylicia Masonheimer