because of imperfection, not only are we error prone but we are out of harmony with both god and our fellowman. we are plagued with feelings of guilt and insecurity, quick to take offense, quick to feel threatened. since we are also disposed to anger, short-temperedness, impatience, and jealousy, we are more prone to “break one another to pieces” than to maintain the bonds of friendship. (proverbs 18:24)
the emotional growth that takes place during teen years can work against friendship. before adolescence “our personalities are less distinct, our interests and goals less well-defined; we don’t have a very strong sense of who we are yet.” but as we approach our late teens, “we begin to become more like adults, individuals with our own goals and ideals and interests.”
some friendships are founded more on selfishness than on mutual love, more on a desire to receive than on a willingness to give. so-called friendships may evaporate when selfish expectations are not met.
the value of loyalty
the writer of proverbs 18:24 showed deep insight into human relationships when he wrote: “some friends bring ruin on us, but a true friend is more loyal than a brother.”
what if someone dear to you has a serious fault that needs immediate attention?
the loyal friend does not hold back from telling the truth out of fear of the other person’s reaction. “The wounds inflicted by a lover are faithful”. (proverbs 27:6)
this, of course, does not mean that you should be harsh or tactless. “well, then, have i become your enemy because i tell you the truth?” (galatians 4:16)
a true friend will love you for “telling the truth”, even if it is corrective counsel.
“rejoice with people who rejoice, weep with people who weep.” (romans 12:15)
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