Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #6 — Loyalty In Friendship

Picture: Counsel #6 — Loyalty in Friendship CR 24.1

Everyone longs for a truly loyal friend, one who will not betray their confidence, who will have their back and won’t abandon them, a friend who truly loves “at all times” (Proverbs 17:17). Although Jesus is the only completely faithful and loyal Friend, those who ask Him to help them reflect His character will also be loyal through the good and the bad. CR 24.2

Be the kind of friend you hope to have! Practice loyalty—first to Jesus, then to your friends, without compromising your biblically-based values.^[22] Keep their secrets. Defend them. Don’t leave your friends when they’re experiencing trouble. Let Christ renew your heart from the inside, so your character can become like His. CR 24.3

“Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable?” Proverbs 20:6 NLT CR 24.4

“Gossip and talebearing is one of Satan’s special agencies to sow discord and strife, to separate friends, and to undermine the faith of many in the truthfulness of our positions.” Ellen White in Counsels for the Church, p. 177 CR 24.5

Reflect: In what ways can you be the kind of loyal, patient, encouraging friend you hope to have ? CR 24.6