True friends

Trust is a foundational need for any healthy relationship. Whom do you trust, and why do you trust them?

My dad was a good man and successful in his career at Scott Paper International, but he didn’t trust a lot of people. He would often hold up one big hand, point to his five fingers, and say, “Paul, if you have five real friends in your life, you will be a lucky man.” 

Although it sounded very cynical at the time, I’ve discovered he was quite right. Don’t get me wrong…I have a lot of friends. If you look at my Facebook page, you’ll see it says I have over 11,000 friends. Hallelujah! But, friend, you know all these people are not necessarily your true friends. The Bible says, “...but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24, NIV)  

Your true friends will take a bullet for you and tell you the truth even if it hurts: “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” (Proverbs 27:6, NKJV) True friends will take your call at 2 a.m. and bring you chicken noodle soup when you are sick. Your true friends will see the good in you because they love you: “Above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8, NKJV) 

I’ve been going through a few very tough situations recently, and my real friends showed up big time. One friend and his wife flew to Vegas to spend a week with me. He continues to text me daily. Others pray for me at weird hours. I know because I’m awake at those moments, crying out to God. 

friend, do you have friends like this, and are you a friend like this? Relational health should be based on true friendships that help create a safety net when the storms of life come. These friends are the ones who will rejoice with you in the landmark events of your life. I’m praying that you will develop these types of friendships because you are worth it. You are a miracle, and I love you.