Friends


Over the past few days I find I have been thinking a lot about friends.

I suppose part of it is because my son Max will soon be heading back to school. And when you are 19, and learning how to “adult”, your friends and their influence can be very impactful. 

1 Corinthians 15;33 puts it this way, “Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

Max is a wonderful kid - but he is easily distracted.  Getting good grades will require that he forego fun to focus on studies.  That will be difficult.  I pray that he recognize the truth of the verse and surround himself with people who will challenge him with their focus and drive.  

Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that good friends will do that for us.  “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Another reason I’ve been thinking about friends this morning is because of all of the texts I have received over the last few days.  Not just the happy birthday ones - but the words of concern for my dad, and the offer of prayers for him and my family.

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

I knew that after spending 7 weeks in Nicaragua I did not want to come home to a big birthday party for my 60th, but I had no idea I’d be spending the day at Bronson hospital.  

I find that some people shy away at times like these because they are unsure of themselves.  Let me assure you… just hearing that you care makes all the difference. 

As friends we need to look for opportunities to challenge each other to higher standards, to love each other selflessly, and to comfort and encourage those who are in need. 

Have a good day my friends!

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