Transforming Friendships

Proverbs 25-27; Romans 15

“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses…the pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel…The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives.”

Proverbs 27:5, 6, 9, 21

Friendships that encourage our growth and walk with God are rare and to be valued. Friendships of convenience, steppingstones to what we are pursuing, are all too common. God-honoring friendships require risking the truth even when it hurts. When we are never rebuked or confronted by a friend, we have to wonder how deep that friendship goes. While the open rebuke or wounding of a friend tests our humility, an even greater test comes through praise.

Do we offer the praise we receive up to God as our Source, or do we hold it for ourselves?

Insecurity requires praise, while those secure in the Father’s love offer the praise they receive up to God like a bouquet of flowers. Friends send “flowers”. Healthy friends remember our flowers fade, but God’s Word and love stand forever.

“Thank you, Father, for good friends that point me to you, for your glory.”