Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (ESV)

Today’s Thought
You’re someone’s friend. Someone is your friend. Friendship binds the world together in an interconnected web of mutual interest, support and laughter.

But it’s not always easy.

Sometimes I hear people say we should simply dump those friends who don’t make us feel happy.

But I’m not so sure.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying you should tolerate disrespectful treatment. If a “friend” perpetually spits fire every time you pick up the phone you may want to take them off speed dial.

True friendship has enough love for criticism. Not criticism for the sake of criticism—but respectful disagreement or advice, given in a spirit of humility. When you really care about someone, you want the best for them… and that often means sharing a view you think is wise, even if it’s not welcome.

Writer and pastor Tim Keller borrows an analogy from the world of medicine: “Like a surgeon, friends cut you in order to heal you.”

You’re someone’s friend. Someone is your friend. Friendship binds the world together in an interconnected web of mutual interest, support and laughter.

Don’t be too afraid of a true friend’s criticism. And don’t be too afraid to share hard advice with a true friend.

When life gets hard and the choices get blurry, there is nothing more valuable than a friend who will tell you the truth.

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17)

By Matthew Ruttan