Loyal Friend
Originally written 5/06/08

Some friendships do not last, but some friends are more loyal than brothers.
Proverbs 18:24

When we look at Paul, we can find that he had two good friends which remained loyal to him. Timothy a young man, who Paul mentored, became a faithful companion. We learn that Timothy came to know Christ through Paul’s counsel. Paul also had a friend named Epaphroditus. Paul thought very highly of this friend. Paul may have been popular and had a lot of people around him, but when he faced trouble many of those friends disappeared. Timothy and Epaphroditus remained steady and true.

Many people come and go in our lives, but we are truly blessed to have something in common with Paul. The friend that stays active and interested in our life, instead of fleeing at the first sign of trouble. Yes, our flesh will cause us to make mistakes and even the highest expectations can disappoint. But in truth, the loyal friend is a rare gift in which we can be thankful.

Do you have a friend like that? She sticks around to share your joy as well as hold you up when you are weak? Are you that kind of friend? A true friend gives her time, her wisdom, her compassion, and her energy to help another. A friend is not afraid to get involved in your life. God blesses us with such offerings, in knowing someone we can truly call our friend. Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and return the favor.