Friendship…how important is it? Does it fall into the “extra” category. Is it something like, “it’s nice when it happens, but it shouldn’t necessarily be pursued.” Or is it something that has profound implications for our lives? I believe it is the latter.
Proverbs 13:20 says “Walk with the wise and become wise. For a companion of fools suffer harm.” The word translated “walk” refers to the day to day activities that make up life. This is one of many Scriptures that clearly indicate who you “hang” with has influence in your life. Taken in a negative manner, 1 Corinthians 15:33 says: “Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”
Your friendships are often a good indicator of what your future might look like. A friendship can make us better. Friends, true friends, will tell you the truth. They often give you fresh insights and encouragement of your spiritual life. Take my friend Patrick. I’ve known him for years. I’ve seen him grow from skeptic to committed Christ-follower. But from the very beginning, he has made it clear that he is for me. He has my back. The urban dictionary will give you clarity on that phrase. “When someone has your back, they are there to support you unconditionally. When life seems to blindside you with undesirable events, they’re there for you without complaint, supporting you in your moment of need, not for their own selfish, self gratifying reasons.”
Remember the song that Woody shares in Toy Story? You’ve got a friend in me. You got troubles, I’ve got ’em too. There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you. We stick together and see it through, ‘Cause you’ve got a friend in me. You’ve got a friend in me.
Sounds like that’s the kind of friendship all of us should pursue. Right?