Never abandon a friend—either yours or your father's. When disaster strikes, you won't have to ask your brother for assistance. It's better to go to a neighbor than to a brother who lives far away. (NLT)

Two winters ago, during one of the big snowfalls that occurred, our driveway was getting seriously pounded by snow and ice. I was under the weather and my wife was panicked. Our snow blower had broken a linchpin which prevented it from moving, and we knew that the snow would need to be cleared by hand. I was preparing to try to “push through,” get dressed, and go clear the snow. Kari asked me to hold on while she posted a quick note on our neighborhood Facebook page. Despite it being dinner time, in less than 5 minutes our neighbor from across the street showed up with his 4-wheeler with a blade to completely clear our driveway. We thanked him profusely, but he just smiled and said, “That’s what neighbors are for.”

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That small act of kindness meant the world to us. It reminded us that we are all placed in each other’s lives for a reason. His simple willingness to serve was a reflection of God’s love in action—a living example of Proverbs 27:10. That day, I learned that being a great neighbor isn’t just about being available in an emergency; it’s about showing up in the small, everyday moments when people need encouragement, support, and a reminder that they’re not alone.

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In Alaska, the importance of being a great neighbor is woven into the fabric of daily life. With distances between houses and towns, unpredictable weather, and the ruggedness of the land, having someone nearby who genuinely cares can mean the difference between hardship and hope. Proverbs 27:10 reminds us that sometimes, the people closest to us in proximity—our neighbors—are the ones God places in our lives to offer support, love, and a tangible expression of His care.

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God not only calls us to be good neighbors but equips us with everything we need to do so. Through His Spirit, we are charged to be vessels of hope and forgiveness in a world that can often feel isolating or overwhelming. But how do we practically live this out?

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Ways to Care Well for Our Neighbors:

• Be Present and Available - We don’t have to wait for a crisis to connect with those around us. A simple check-in, a shared meal, or an offer to help with a task can strengthen relationships and let people know they are valued.

• Offer Hope Through Encouragement - Many people carry unseen burdens. A kind word, a handwritten note, or an offer to pray with someone can uplift their spirit. Never underestimate the power of a small act of encouragement—it may be exactly what they need that day.

• Extend Forgiveness and Grace - Living in close community means that, at times, misunderstandings or frustrations will arise. Being a great neighbor means choosing to extend grace, offering forgiveness freely, and seeking peace in our relationships.

• Meet Practical Needs - Whether it’s helping to shovel a driveway, lending a tool, or sharing resources, tangible acts of kindness demonstrate God’s love in action. When we step in to meet a need, we reflect Christ’s servant heart.

• Be a Safe Place - Life is full of struggles, and sometimes people simply need a safe person to confide in. By listening without judgment and pointing others to the hope found in Christ, we create a refuge where they can find encouragement and direction.

Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). This command isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about consistent, intentional acts of love in everyday moments. As I go through the day, I ask God to open my eyes to opportunities to bring meaningful hope and forgiveness to those around me. By doing so, I seek to become the kind of neighbor who makes a real difference in the day-to-day world of others. Whether it is clearing a neighbor’s driveway when their snowblower breaks or inviting them over to do a crafting project, it all creates connections between us and opens the door for us to be able to demonstrate the behavior described in Proverbs 27:10.  

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How are you doing? Do you know your neighbors? If not, how can you start creating connections with them, whether it is a kind gesture like taking them cookies or helping them when you see they have a need. The rewards are awesome and reflect God’s call for us in this verse.  

Lord, thank You for placing me in a community where I can be a light. Help me to see my neighbors as You see them—with love, compassion, and grace. Equip me to bring encouragement, forgiveness, and hope in meaningful ways. Let my life be a testimony of Your love, and may I be the kind of neighbor who reflects Your heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.