Both were named Mike, both were good friends, and both gave me friendship benefits in different ways.
I met the first Mike when I was fifteen. My dad had been called as pastor of the church where Mike and his family attended. I had entered the rebellious stages of adolescence . . . and so had Mike. He had experimented with a little more than I had and was eager to introduce me to some other unhealthy habits. I eagerly followed his lead. Mike was a good friend—and would have done anything for me—but he influenced me negatively.
I met the second Mike shortly after graduating high school when I began working in the warehouse at a local metal fabrication plant. He worked in quality control and had a desk in the warehouse. Mike had recently become a believer and eagerly tried to please God with his actions and attitudes.
At the time, I still had a few rough edges, but Mike kept me sanded down. Every time I cussed, he gently called my name. Every time he saw or heard me committing wrongful actions, he lovingly called me out. Rather than get mad at Mike, I appreciated his concern and shaped up around him. I didn’t want to hear him say his favorite thing: “You ain’t right.”
Many years have passed since I hung around with these Mikes, but I remember their influence well—both the bad and the good. So did Paul when it came to Epaphroditus. Paul was in prison when Epaphroditus delivered a gift from the believers in Philippi.
Good friends hold us accountable rather than lead us into unwise and unhealthy attitudes and actions. We’ll appreciate their rebukes because we know they have our best interests in mind.
Additionally, good friends show unconditional love. Regardless of how we act or respond to their rebukes, they will continue to love us as Christ does.
Further, good friends lend a helping hand. Helping us may inconvenience them, but they don’t mind.
And good friends share a common foundation with us: belief in Jesus Christ as our Savior.
Wanting to be a good friend as well, we will return these favors. So, develop friendships that lift you up, not bring you down. Don’t let just any Mike into your life.
Father, lead me into friendships with other believers who will enhance my journey with you.
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