Whatever happens, God will be faithful to you. But who else can you count on? Paul wrote: ‘Everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel’ (vv. 21-22 NIV). Paul knew he could count on Timothy. So who do you know you can count on? Before you answer, think about these four questions: 1) When something goes wrong, do you have at least one friend you can easily talk to about it? ‘A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for…adversity’ (Proverbs 17:17 NIV). A relationship like that is priceless, and a real blessing. 2) Who in your life could accurately name your greatest fears and temptations? ‘Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble…A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken’ (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12 NLT). 3) Do you have one or more friends who you meet with regularly? ‘Then those who honoured the Lord spoke with each other, and the Lord listened and heard them. The names of those who honoured the Lord and respected him were written in his presence in a book to be remembered.’ (Malachi 3:16 NCV). 4) Do you have a friend you know well enough to trust their confidentiality? ‘A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret’ (Proverbs 11:13 NIV).
