Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #6 — Find Your “Tribe”

Picture: Counsel #6 — Find Your “Tribe” CMH 40.1

Choose some good friends—both supportive people who cheer you on without judging your ambition or lack thereof, and advisors, such as parents and teachers, who will encourage you to develop all your talents to serve God and others. A good, balanced squad helps anchor you during the storm of conflicting expectations (see Proverbs 12:26).^[39] CMH 40.2

“The sweet smell of perfume and oils is pleasant, and so is good advice from a friend.” Proverbs 27:9 NCV CMH 40.3

“Things will go wrong with every one; sadness and discouragement press every soul; then a personal presence, a friend who will comfort and impart strength, will turn back the darts of the enemy that are aimed to destroy. Christian friends are not half as plentiful as they should be. In hours of temptation, in a crisis, what a value is a true friend! Satan at such times sends along his agents to cause the trembling limbs to stumble; but the true friends who will counsel, who will impart magnetic hopefulness, the calming faith that uplifts the soul, —oh, such help is worth more than precious pearls.” Ellen White in Sons and Daughters of God, p. 161 CMH 40.4

Reflect: Identify one action you can take this week to connect with a potential member of your "tribe," either a cheerleader, an advisor, or someone who embodies Christian values and can offer support. CMH 40.5