Counsel #19 — Friends You Trust

Picture: Counsel #19 — Friends You TrustCR 37.1

True friendships are built on trust - the most important element of any relationship. These types of friends provide a foundation of honesty and dependability, ensuring you can always openly communicate your challenges and frustrations with them. Their consistent support plays a huge role in strengthening the bond over time, sometimes creating life-long friendships that last for decades.^{[37]https://www.shortwoodsda.interamerica.org/bibleinfo_topics/friendship?_=1734876476004.3372}CR 37.2

Whenever you find yourself in an emotional or physical rut, true friends will show faithfulness by encouraging you to seek God for your personal and spiritual growth. In addition, their support will be unwavering — never changing even when trying circumstances arise. If you are facing a challenging situation, make sure you have a friend who will not only stand by you, but will also offer honest advice that aligns with scripture and God’s will for your life. After all, true friendships will undoubtedly bring peace to chaos and hope to hopelessness, reminding you of the importance of stewarding meaningful connections.CR 37.3

“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 NIVCR 37.4

“When one is in trouble, call upon him and speak comforting words to him. This is true friendship.” Ellen White in EGW SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 7, p. 928CR 37.5

Reflect: How many of your friends can you trust with your vulnerabilities?CR 37.6