Friends

Posted 5/7/2003 4:25:52 PM

Our daily interaction with people is one of the most telling clue into our true character. Like nothing else, people bring out the extremes. Whether furious anger or exuberant joy, another person often brings our raw emotions out in the open.

Yet, it isn't just any person that can do this, it's the one you know well. Casual acquaintances and passerby's are easily faked out; you can put on a smile for them with ease, regardless of your true feelings. But, the people you deal with daily - your family, your close friends - are not so easily fooled. Day after day, week after week, you become closer to these people, for good or bad. Your feelings will also become stronger, also for good or bad.

For bad

• Job's friends mercilessly accused him Job 16:20,19:19, "caring" so much for his soul's well-being.
  
• The disciples fled Jesus' side when He was arrested Mat 26:56, Mark 14:48-50, knowing there was no middle ground for them

For good

• Jonathan and David loved each other dearly 1Sam 18:1,20:41, 2Sam 1:26, not wanting to be apart
• Paul was very concerned for his brother Titus 2Cor 2:13
• Onesiphorus and Epaphroditus were close friends and helpers of Paul Php 2:25, 2Tim 1:16
• Priscilla and Aquila risked themselves for Paul Rom 16:4
  
• Ruth was inseparable from Naomi Ruth 1:16
• Elisha wanted to follow Elijah everywhere 2Ki 2:2
• Several women followed Jesus to his death on the cross Mat 27:55,56, 28:1

Jesus Himself is the best example, loving the world enough to lay down his life for all of us John 13:1,15:13

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