“Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?” (Proverbs 20:6)

 I treasure the gifts God gives me. Sometimes I get so preoccupied with the “now” of my existence that I leave little time to reflect on the many blessings and treasures God gave and continues to provide me with throughout my life. This daily devotional is Part One of the “God Gave Me You” series by Guest Author, Wynelle R. Piner, that reflects on the prime gifts of friendship, loving parents, and the blessing of sisterhood that God showered upon me.          

Loyal Friends

Today’s Scripture verse poses a profound question. Many people come and go throughout life who love to say they are “friends,” but are they truly reliable? How can you tell if you have a genuine friend or just a casual acquaintance?

What stands out most in my memory of my youth is the true friendship of two loyal people. The world of a child can be painful if you are different from your peers. Adults who are “different” are labeled as eccentric and left alone. In the world of children where politeness, tact, and self-control are not yet developed, being different is like waving a red flag in front of a bull. 

Since I was quiet, painfully shy, and more comfortable with dogs and farm animals than with other kids, I was considered prime fare for teasing. But, there was 1 loyal friend—neighbor, who accepted me and valued my differences as unique. From pre-school through high school, we gave the best and sometimes the worst of ourselves to each other—one boy who understood and on whom I could rely.  God gave me loyal friends!

What about you? As you reflect on the sentiment in this daily devotional, has God given you loyal friends?

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your gift of friendship! It is a true blessing to have two or more loyal friends in my life.