It struck me today that some of you may be facing a tough decision. It may be about your career, family, health or faith. All of us eventually do but I wanted to remind you of God’s provision for those tough times. There called friends.
Ralph Emerson wrote, "God evidently does not intend us all to be rich or powerful or great, but He does intend us all to be friends."
But what I want to say about those friends isn’t what you expect. Consider the following verse:
"Wounds from a friend can be trusted but an enemy multiplies kisses." Proverbs 27:6
You need friends to enjoy life and share the good times but you have a select few friends who are both wise and committed to what is best for you. You need those friends, especially if you have to make some tough decisions. But remember that listening and hearing are two different things. To hear what advice a good friend can give, you must:
Be humble. It’s okay to admit that you are struggling and aren’t perfect. Your friendship is made better when it’s honest.
Be patient. Don’t make your mind up before you talk. If your friend offers some criticism or tough advice, you can’t jump to the wrong conclusion and write them off. Friends don’t do that.
Be prepared. Friends can offer perspectives and answers you didn’t anticipate. What they say may make such sense that you have to rethink everything. But that is what friends are for!
Above all, don’t go it alone. That position isolates you and curries the attention of the devil.
"Encourage each other every day while it is ‘today’. Help each other so none of you will become hardened because sin has deceived you." Hebrews 3:13
Don’t become cynical. Don’t wait to long to talk to a friend. It is the best way to protect your heart in hard times.