A Real Friend

Ready: 

“There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.” -- Proverbs 18:24 NLT

Set:

If I asked you to name one person on your team that you consider like a brother or sister, could you answer me? What about a teammate that is a real friend? Truth is, we all have that one teammate that instantly comes to mind. This teammate is trustworthy, genuine, supportive, a team player, loving, encouraging, uplifting, and a real good listener. This teammate is a friend that walks by our side and leads us to a life full of positivity, accountability, and brotherly and sisterly love. I believe this is the type of friend Proverbs 18:24 is speaking of. A friend who sticks closer than a brother or sister.

When one uses “air quotes” around a word, that usually is indicating sarcasm. Proverbs is comparing the difference of “friends” and real friends. It’s important to pursue and surround yourself with real friends in life. The ones who lead you to Christ and stick by your side. Friendship is truly life-shaping, so it is vital that we pursue Christ-like friendships. Along with pursuing real friends, it’s just as important to be a real friend and a real teammate to others. Pursue being someone who sticks closer than a brother or sister. Be a real friend, not a “friend.” Be the teammate that is wise, bold in their faith and leads others to Christ. This is the type of friend is what God wants us to be.

Remember that question I asked in the first sentence? If that question was asked to one of your teammates, would they respond with your name?

Go:

        1. Describe the difference of a real friend and a “friend.”

        2. How can you be a real teammate?

        3. Why does God want us to pursue friends who are real?

Workout:

Proverbs 27:17; John 15:13

Overtime:

“God, You are a real friend to all. Let me learn from You, how to be a real friend, and let me begin to love my teammates and those around me more. Let my friendship look like Yours. Amen.”

Arbor Diggs