A Good Friend

A Good Friend

A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Psalm 18:24 NIV

Several years ago I used to lead a Bible study group for a church I attended. All of the study group leaders had a "coach". But I was sort of the lone wolf among the others because I didn't have an official coach for over five years, that is, until John was assigned to me (John isn't his real name). We met only two times. On our third meeting John was stern; I think he was attempting to assume the role of leader between the two of us. He said, "Eric, take a few days to think about what I am about to say... You need to decide what you want to get out of our time together." I told him, "I don't need time to figure it out. I want a friend." I only heard from John one time after that... he asked me for money.

After dealing with John I felt foolish and immature. I had bought into the idea that other Christians were my brothers, sisters and mothers (Mark 3:35). And if you can believe it, I believed that we believers would show the world who we are by the love we have for each other. But the reality that came upon me was that my walk with the Lord would be just that, me and Jesus alone. I felt gullible, but I was okay with the idea that I would continue to be the lone wolf while other Christians had a connection of some type. I knew I would always be on the outside and they were the impenetrable clique.

My lone wolf approach to Christianity was challenged by one of my current study groups. Ester quoted James 5:14 and said, "The Lord's word has such wonderful promises, but so few believe. Let's believe Him and pray right now. We should pray for Eric right now!" If you can believe it, Nancy brought oil, and Dorsey anointed my head. Ester and her husband Andy held me close. As I tilted my head down to pray, I could see all the hands of Nancy, Aaron, Naomi, Andy, Doc and Sandy coming toward me... I think I finally understand the idea of Christian brothers, sisters and mothers. And they did all of this for me, I believe, because of another friend I have that is even closer still.