Developing Kingdom Leaders – Tom Yeakley

True Friends

And Saul’s son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. 1 Samuel 23:16 NIV

We are people of many acquaintances, but how many true friends do we have?  We get out of our relationships what we put into them.  Those who accept us when we make ourselves vulnerable or share our inner, true selves are good friends.  David and Jonathan had such a friendship.

What does a real friend look like?  A true friend is one who listens to us.  We can open our hearts and know they will always accept us.  A true friend is loyal, especially in times of trials.  A true friend does not break a confidence-–they can keep a secret.  A real friend encourages and stimulates us to follow the Lord wholeheartedly, wanting what’s best for us, not themselves.

• Loyalty is one of the greatest qualities of a true friend.  What do the following passages say about loyalty? -– Proverbs 17:17; Proverbs 18:24

• A genuine friend will not betray our confidence.  They will keep a secret and not gossip about us or slander us to others.  What do the following passages say concerning breaking a confidence? -– Proverbs 20:19; Proverbs 25:9-10

Questions to ponder:  What true friends do you have? Have you expressed to them your appreciation recently?

Passages for further reflection: Proverbs 18:19; Ecclesiastes 4:9-10