«Ointment and perfume delight the heart, and the sweetness of a man’s friend gives delight by hearty counsel» (Proverbs 27:9).
FRIENDSHIP
During the second year of my ministry I was assigned to be a school chaplain at one of the Adventist Academies in the City of Mexico. Every morning I could see the students’ faces that reflected all sorts of feelings, from hope, a desire to learn and optimism, to frustration, indifference and melancholy. In addition, I had the challenge of getting groups of teenagers interested in studying the Bible, a much harder task than some people imagine. The kids would constantly visit my office to talk about various things. At their young age, they were a living reflection of the complex situation thousands of Christian homes are going through at this time. However, I only spent a short time at that school, barely a few months later and I was already somewhere else.
As the years go by, I’ve come to accept a great truth: if you were ever a teacher, you’ll be one for the rest of your life. And it’s been that way. To this day, those kids have continued to seek me out to ask for my advice or simply to remain good friends. I’ve seen them succeed, fail, get married, divorce, drift away from church, suffer serious illnesses and face great challenges. I’ve even been in one of my former student’s funeral. They are all over the world today. I recently spoke with a young lady who works in the United Arab Emirates and was facing complex situations. Like in the old times, she sought one of her teachers for guidance.
It’s true that you shouldn’t give advice when you’re not asked for it. But it’s also true that, when you show a true interest in others, especially when dealing with young people, good advice will always be much appreciated. Authority figures in society (such as teachers and pastors) have great opportunities to pass on valuable counsels to young people. Their indifferent, unfriendly and derogatory attitude hurts more than one person’s heart. But you, through genuine friendship, can change the life of those around you. In fact, God is looking for these kinds of people to use them as channels of his love and to answer the prayers of those facing difficulties.
Ask the Lord today to help you be a good influence on others and speak encouraging words to your friends.