Beneath the SurfaceSample

Dolphins are some of the smartest animals on earth. They're so smart that they even show empathy — the ability to not only understand when someone else is sad, afraid, or in danger, but to give them comfort and protection.

They're also some of the world's most sociable animals. Dolphins hang out in groups called pods, where they develop friendships. Dolphins are smart enough to know that they need each other. The ocean is a big place, with a lot of threats and danger. If one dolphin gets separated from the rest of the pod, it's vulnerable. But when they stick together, everybody is better able to thrive.

The Bible says people are the same way. When we're on our own, it's easier to get into trouble. We can become distracted, deceived, misled or even lazy. Proverbs says that whole nations can fall apart when good advice isn't valued.

God's purpose for your life is secure, but you're going to find that consistently growing in your faith will be a lot easier if you've got good people around you. Dolphins are wise enough to surround themselves with good friends. They know that aren't meant to go through life alone. The same goes for you. The more people you have looking out for you, the harder it is to go astray.