Close, open relationships are vital. A glib “Hi, how are ya” must be replaced with genuine concern. The key term is assimilation. When I use the word here, I’m referring to people reaching out to one another.
Read MoreCategory Archives: Friendship
Two Are Better Than One
Independence is our watchword and “Think for Yourself” is our motto. Declaring a need is a sign of weakness, an open admission of failure and lack of character. Furthermore, we are on the move so much, who has time to share and to care?
Read MorePull in the Anchor
Have you done someone wrong? Have you been offensive? Have your actions caused hurt? To do nothing is not only in direct disobedience to Jesus’ teaching, it also complicates your life.
Read MoreFriendly People, Thoughtful People
If I have learned anything during my journey on Planet Earth, it is that people need one another. The presence of other people is essential—caring people, helpful people, interesting people, friendly people, thoughtful people.
Read MoreRelating with Our Friends
After God made man, He observed a need inside that life, a nagging loneliness that Adam couldn’t shake. “Then the LORD God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him.'” (Genesis 2:18)
Read MoreContradictory Truths, Part One
Tom Landry, the late head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, was once quoted as saying something like this: “I have a job to do that is not very complicated, but it is often difficult: to get a group of men to do what they don’t want to do so they can achieve the one thing they have wanted all their lives.” Coach Landry, in that seemingly contradictory statement, described what discipline is all about . . .
Read MoreThe Tongue of the Wise, Part Two
We’ve been talking about the rare but essential quality of tact. I mentioned that the classic example of tactless humanity is the abrasive Christian who feels it is his or her calling to fight for the truth with little or no regard for the other fella’s feelings. For all his rapid-fire Scripture quotations, you will rarely find Proverbs 18:19 on the lips of this armored crusader:
Read MoreBeing Real, Part Two
Yesterday I told you about Dave Cowens, an NBA star who disappeared one day on a quest for solitude and meaning. I noted that to “find yourself” requires that you take time to look. And it’s essential if you want to be a whole person. The word is real. It takes time and it usually hurts. The Velveteen Rabbit is a classy book for children with a message for adults.
Read MoreHope for Survival
A certain fascinating social phenomenon occurred in American history. Understand, I wasn’t living back then, but from what I read, this actually happened. It occurred when “Go west, young man!” was the challenge of America . . . when squatter’s rights seemed the most advantageous way to pry families loose and dare them to brave the elements via the covered wagon.
Read MoreA Bridge Called Credibility, Part Two
Listen to what the Scriptures have to say about keeping your word: Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor. (Ephesians 4:25 NIV) And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Colossians 3:17 NIV) LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless . . .
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