Friends - Part Two

Friends are separated from acquaintances by one distinguishing fact. Friends are present when everyone else leaves. Acquaintances move on when enduring contact is inconvenient or difficult. Friends hang in there!

Like you, we have passed through difficult seasons in life. One friend stands out during a time when we faced difficult disappointment and distress. (Only those who have mastered the art of denial have not known distress.) The season seemed endless and many we had counted as friends were strangely absent. We had done no wrong, but felt ostracized and very alone, unsure with whom we could confide.

During the time mentioned, a seminary professor with whom we were acquainted called asking, “Is everything all right with you?” The scholar was a specialist in human behavior, especially in the area of stress.

My response was, “Sure, why do you ask?” I was unsure if I should really level with my caller. (You would be paranoid too, if everyone was out to get you!)

The professor, with whom we had shared a meal and our pulpit, replied, “The Holy Spirit awakened me last night and ordered me to pray for you. I have prayed for several hours and, since this is not an ordinary experience for me, I would like to know what is happening in your life.”

I had also been awake, helping God remember my name, circumstances, and list of my endless troubles. On hearing my caller’s explanation, with relief that comes with the Spirit’s permission, I unloaded several months of pent-up woes, hard-to-express feelings, and growing fears.

The kind professor, listened patiently and then said, “First, remember you cannot control what others do. Second, God has not forgotten you, nor will He abandon you. And, now that I know what is happening, I will faithfully fast and pray for you until the Lord brings you through this season.”

That brother was from another denomination, and as a result, our paths have seldom crossed. But, he remains a friend with far-reaching influence. The manner in which the friendship was initiated reminds me that, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17) Or, in my personal translation, “If it is good, it didn’t start with me!”

Thank you friends! We love you!