“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” Proverbs 27:6
I love meeting up with childhood friends whenever we are back in town and have some free time. One of the traditions we established a few years ago is ending our nights with highs and lows. We openly discuss what has been going on since the last time we saw each other. We share a common desire to catch up with one another and be mutually encouraged. But along with encouragement, there is a transparency and honesty with ways to grow. Having known each other for so long, we are able to pinpoint not just the positives but also the negatives, so we become aware and strive for better.
True friends are trustworthy and not deceiving. There is a willingness to speak about both what we want to hear and what we need to hear. In contrast, some may express love and affection, yet refuse to provide needed rebuking or counsel. It is the true, Biblical perspective of friendships that seeks a deeper acknowledgement of wisdom, integrity, and love for another beyond approval and striving for spiritual growth. True friends can present wounds with a right heart of accountability and Godly living.
Who are you surrounding yourself with? Are they people who only seek approval? Do they only have selfish ambitions? Or are they an encouragement to your spiritual walk, willing to speak necessary truths even if they may wound you? Do they seek to help you discern Godly growth and ways to strive and achieve that? Also are you being that friend to others?
