Friends

Friends

2 Timothy 1:16

“May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains.”

Paul had experienced extreme suffering for the cause of Christ. He was mocked and often imprisoned for his preaching of the gospel. Inherently, the people that associated with Paul were also ridiculed. Paul himself spurs on his fellow believers to “join in his suffering for the gospel of Christ.” In these times of suffering Paul names Onesiphorus as a true friend. He gave a sense of “refreshment” and did not judge him for his current work for Christ or his past.

True friends are ones that share the burden of our pain and celebrate with us in times of joy. These friends are also ones that we are comfortable sharing our deepest and darkest secrets. Things you wouldn't want the public to know but are comfortable sharing with someone special makes them a genuine friend. Knowing you will not be judged by a person provides a sense of security and that is important in friendship.

It is in these type of relationships that we find encouragement, inspiration, comfort and council. Think about who your Onesiphorus is and thank them for their investment in your life. Also, reflect on how you can be that friend to someone else. Is there someone that you were once close with you feel God telling you to reconnect with? Take time to invest in others and hold on to the true friends that you have.