Rock Solid Friendships - Guest Post by Chris Beltrami

Proverbs 17:17  “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. “

I was speaking with 2 great friends just recently and the question arose:

            “What do you think is the most important quality for a good friendship?”

There was some great conversation that followed.   The phraseology was a bit different amongst us but the attribute that seemed foremost was that of ‘loyalty’ - trustworthiness, fidelity, allegiance, …

This conversation caused me to realize that I am very fortunate to have some very good friends.  Loyal friends.   Friends that I truly believe would never say anything bad about me to someone else.   That’s a good thing!   That’s a blessing!

And I have a great trust that they would stick up for me when someone else might question something I said or did. 

Proverbs 17”9  “Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates closefriends.”    Ouch!

This does not mean that they would cover for mistakes that I am capable of making.  A 2^nd friendship quality of honesty and openness  would oblige a good friend to say “Hey Chris, I think you really blew it!”

Or, “Hey you!   The other night someone said ‘this or that’ about you.   I stuck up for you but … we need to talk?”

So, think about it!   It’s just a nice feeling to think of someone that you consider to be a good friend and to know that they would always have something good to say about you to another person.

Think of some of your friends.   One at a time.  Close your eyes as you think of each one.   And, if they have this rock solid ‘loyalty ‘ heart … nod your head and smile.   If you’ve got a good friend like this  … Be thankful.

Colossians 3:15  “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”

You might want to drop someone a nice note today and thank them for being a good friend.   And, don’t forget spousal and family friendships.

Lastly, of course, don't forget to BE a good friend.

Chris Beltrami is one of New England's most award winning photographers. For decades he has used his position as a Christian businessman to influence others to consider the claims of Christ on their lives. He has been writing a monthly devotional called "Think About It" for many years. This article first appeared in the June 2015 edition of "Think About it."