Proverbs 27:10 Do not forsake your friend and the friend of your father, and do not go to your brother’s house when disaster strikes you–better a neighbor nearby than a brother far away.

Previously, we mentioned the traits of being a true friend. We mentioned how a true friend will speak the truth in love, support and encourage one another, and lift each other up in prayer.

It’s great to encourage and lift each other however, we SHOULD NOT do this without the Holy Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit, we are acting out of our flesh and no man can please God through his flesh. The Holy Spirit knows exactly what to say, when, and how to say it. If we just randomly attempt to encourage our friend in love on our own accord, they may not be ready or mature enough to receive it yet. That friend may view our encouragement for criticism or “judgement.”

When we’re speaking to a friend or in any arena in life, we should allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us every step of the way.

Be blessed and be a true friend.