Who in your life have you invited to “speak up” when you wander from God? Whose friendship is both enjoyable and valuable to your life? Who would list your name if asked those questions?

Our culture has become so careful with words that often words have lost any real meaning. Opinions have become truth to the people who hold them, whether or not the opinions are truth. People are often more willing to speak up when they agree than they are when they disagree, even when they know what is right. We live in a culture that values tolerance, even when what we tolerate causes harm to ourselves and others. 

The wisdom of Proverbs 27:5–6 is no longer the wisdom of the world. Yet, it remains the timeless wisdom of the ages. Empty words that sound nice are not as valuable as the truth, even when the truth hurts the hearer.

A true friend, if they are faithful to God and faithful friends to us, will speak the truth even when their words might wound. A friend who tolerates our weaknesses won’t help us grow stronger in the Lord. If a friend truly loves us, they will want us to be right with God and live for his blessing. All of us need that kind of friend from time to time, and all of us need to be that kind of friend as well.

A valuable friend is someone who will help you live right with God and true to his word. A Christian earns the right to hold someone accountable by living a strong spiritual life and loving their friends. We can invite those friends to help us remain accountable to our God. 

Good advice and careful instruction provide wisdom. Every Christian should have friends whose advice and instruction are wisdom for us. We should also work to become that kind of wise and helpful friend to others.