Twitter (aka “X”) didn’t exist in biblical times. If it did, the proverbs would be posted frequently. They are short and to-the-point. They communicate eternal truths in memorable, bite-sized chunks.

Proverbs 27:6 says: “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”

What does it mean?

It starts by speaking about wounds. Aren’t wounds bad? Usually. But here we are told about wounds from a friend which can be trusted. These “wounds” are honest words that you need hear—but which you might not want to hear. 

Perhaps you’re engaging in destructive behaviour. Perhaps you’re not staying true to your word. When a friend speaks to you about it, it can feel like a wound. After all, it can sometimes hurt.

But since this friend cares about you, you can trust the process. They aren’t saying these things because they like it or because they want to make you feel bad. They’re saying them because they care.

If these words are said in love, and if they are said because your friend want the best for you, it can actually bring about a positive result. Their words might increase your knowledge about yourself, helping you to become a stronger, more mature person.

There are times when a surgeon cuts in order to heal. There are times when a mechanic takes an engine apart in order to fix it.

True friends are honest, even when it hurts. 

You sometimes hear it said that you should only surround yourself with people who make you happy. Oh, brother. Sure, sometimes you need a good dose of good times, especially when you’ve been through a rough patch. But only surrounding yourself with “people who make you happy” is a toddler’s approach to relationships.

Cherish good friends. In a world like ours we need certain kinds of people in our lives: honest ones who care about us.

“Wounds from a friend can be trusted…”

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Notes:

–This Sunday (September 3rd, 2023) I’m preaching on Psalm 131 at Westminster Church. How do we calm and quiet our souls?

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.