Martha Bolton shares in her book, “I Love You Still”, twelve characteristics of a great friend:
- A FRIEND sees the best in you, even when you’re not showing it.
- A FRIEND knows when you need someone to talk to, when you need to be alone, and, most important, the difference between the two.
- A FRIEND can tell when you need a hug and hesitate to offer one.
- A FRIEND makes you laugh when you see little to laugh about.
- A FRIEND will always come to your defense, no matter how often called upon to do it or unpopular it makes him.
- A FRIEND believes you first and rumors second.
- A FRIEND never passes up the opportunity to encourage you.
- A FRIEND shares with you – even chocolate.
- A FRIEND tells you when you are about to make a mistake.
- A FRIEND is someone you can always depend on, even when you don’t deserve it.
- A FRIEND brings out the best in you, but doesn’t insist on the credit.
- A FRIEND understands you, even when you don’t.
Now I want to add a couple more:
13. A FRIEND is not afraid to ask you the hard questions.
14. A FRIEND will always be able to speak the truth to you in love.
15. A FRIEND knows when to speak and when to listen.
16. A FRIEND always points you to the Word of God.
Twenty-five years ago, when we arrived at America’s Keswick, we walked into First Baptist of Toms River and met Pastor John Strain. Within weeks, I knew I had found a new friend.
We have laughed and cried and served in many ministry situations together.
He has faithfully preached for a number of years at the Colony Chapel and our monthly Hymn Sings.
He knows EVERYTHING about me, and yet he has been a faithful friend doing all the things listed above and more.
For the past seven years, he has served as the Chaplain at The Pines at Whiting and has done a great job loving on the residents and staff besides being their Pastor.
Only eternity will reveal the fruits of his labors.
Pastor Strain’s life partner went to heaven several years ago, and he has been alone. He has family in Texas who have begged him to move in with them.
I have mixed emotions. I get it. I am happy for him. But I am going to miss his friendship. But best friends will always be best friends regardless of geographic location.
Friends sometimes come and go, but I am thankful that Jesus is the friend of sinners and is the One who sticks closer than a brother.
Thanks, Pastor John, for being my friend. I love you.
Undivided: By Christ, In Christ, For Christ,
Bill Welte, President/CEO
America’s Keswick
Email Bill at: bwelte@americaskeswick.org
Written by Bill Welte: President/CEO of America’s Keswick: Bill has been married to his childhood sweetheart for 40+ years and has four married kids and 12 amazing grandkids. He loves music and is an avid reader.
