I used to be afraid of losing people, until I realized that the people that I thought would be there for me never really were. My loyalty and love for them I thought was apparent but when it came to a time when I was in a dark place and they could see it, but they were never there to share even a glimmer of light or hope. I have had more strangers reach out in hopes of encouraging me then the people that I thought should have. Over time I have found the value of having a friend, what they are to look like, and more importantly what it means to be one by reading what is written in *Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.* I have been blessed to have friendships in the Lord with certain individuals that really do share the love of Jesus with me. Our bond with Christ as the centerpiece encourages me greatly. The true value of a relationship really can be discerned by the actions of others when your involvement in their life is no longer a benefit to them. Through my growth I have discovered enemies in my midst that I had befriended. I have come to a place where it is no longer I who lose anyone, but they who will lose me. I like what Charles Spurgeon said about friendship, “We are one in Christ; let us be friends with one another; but let us never be friends with one another’s error. If I be wrong, rebuke me sternly; I can bear it, and bear it cheerfully; and if ye be wrong, expect the like measure from me, and neither peace nor parley with your mistakes.” True friendship can be challenging, but in reality it is a sharpening of our swords and with God We Are Stronger Together. In Christ Love, douglas.

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