Relationships
In adult life friends get fewer and the choice gets clearer. A real friend sharpens you, like iron on iron. Bad company pulls you down, even when it looks successful. You need a few who want your best — and you can be that friend, even when the calendar is full.
Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens his friend’s countenance.
What it means
Iron sharpens iron. Real friends make each other braver and more honest.
How you can live it
Choose company that builds. Be that friend for someone else.
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
What it means
Love here is costly, not cute. Jesus did not just feel — he gave himself. Real friendship shows in what you risk for someone, not in how many people see you.
How you can live it
Be a friend who gives, not only takes — a message, a listen, a presence.
Don’t be deceived! “Evil companionships corrupt good morals.”
What it means
Do not be deceived. Bad company ruins good habits. Who you spend time with shapes what starts to feel normal.
How you can live it
If a group pulls you toward what you do not want: you may change company. One good friend is better than ten who tear down.
A prayer
God, give me friends who build, and make me that kind of friend. Amen.