Friend

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. – Ecclesiastes 4:9

Much like Doc Holiday in the movie ‘TOMBSTONE’, I don’t have a crowd of friends…but I’ve been fortunate to have a few.

One such individual is Dennis Baw.

I first encountered Dennis when I was a fresh college graduate. Brimming with dreams, aspirations, and a hint of arrogance. Dennis gave me my start as a part-time staff member at the church he pastored.

Despite being accomplished and successful, Dennis accepted the task of guiding a brash, inexperienced young man. For this, I am profoundly and deeply grateful to the Father for our pairing.

As we served together over many years, our relationship transformed through numerous phases: boss to employee, mentor to mentee, colleagues, friends, strained, distanced, misunderstood, and finally friends again.

Friendship is a fascinating entity.

To acquire a friend, you must act as a friend.

Being a friend entails taking risks.

Genuine friendship demands absolute transparency.

Dependence.

“If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:10

Friendship implies depending on someone else. It also signifies that you have the privilege of leaning on someone else!

Admitting dependence can be challenging, as it involves humility and requesting aid. How often have you wallowed in the muck of a problem longer than necessary because you didn’t ask for help?

Are you seeking help today?

Pause and ask!

Moreover, friendship calls for recognizing when assistance is needed and stepping in to help BEFORE the plea even arises. You just show up!

Are you observant today?

Pause and notice!

Close relationships inevitably face misunderstandings and hurt. Proximity, pride, and a relentless adversary ensure this.

Merely ignoring the hurt won’t suffice. The wound is real. If left untreated, it will fester and cause substantial harm.

The solution?

Forgiveness.

“Bear with one another and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as The Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13

Forgiveness is peculiar.

Consider the simplicity of the verse… “forgive as The Lord forgave you”.

Forgiveness has a celestial quality.

As humans, we lack the capacity to truly forgive. We NEED DIVINE HELP!

Are you nursing a hurt caused by a friend?

Pause and forgive!

“But I’ve already forgiven them,” you might say. But have you healed from the hurt?

Pause and seek healing!

Friendship is a treasure. Some friendships are transient, while others last a lifetime.

Where do you stand with your friendships today?

Perhaps it’s time to exercise dependence and forgiveness.

Pause.

Pray for your friends, and express gratitude!