What are the characteristics of the people you call best friends?
Here are some of the attributes that I admire the most. People who are:
- Loyal. Not only to me as a friend, but they are loyal in whatever they do, as workers, servants, and leaders.
- Honest. The bold, direct truth-tellers, who clearly say what needs to be said, when it needs to be said. Confrontation with these individuals is healthy.
- Humble. Their mission in life is not about them, it is about a greater purpose. They’re willing to take bumps and bruises as they stand up for what they believe.
- Self-aware. They know what they are capable of and better, they know their weaknesses and are unashamed to admit them.
- Sacrificial givers, expecting nothing in return. They add to the relationship.
- Escape artists. They can get out undetected from a sticky situation at a moment’s notice.
Today’s reading: Jeremiah 8-10; 2 Cor 11
The characteristics listed above are how I’d refer to the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 11. I was just joking about the escape artist thing but how thrilling would it be to escape an enemy via a basket through a window in a city wall?
“When I was in Damascus, the governor under King Aretas kept guards at the city gates to catch me. I had to be lowered in a basket through a window in the city wall to escape from him.” 2 Corinthians 11:32-33 NLT
Paul was loyal to his friends and those whom he served, he told the truth no matter the consequences and humbled himself to the point of many beatings and severe physical pain. He wasn’t out to win hearts for him but for Jesus. Paul knew his strengths and weaknesses and was bold enough to be vulnerable in admitting his inadequacies. He gave and gave, ultimately to the point of death, much like our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Paul’s example is a powerful reminder that true friendship, leadership, and discipleship are not about self-promotion or personal gain. They are about serving others with a pure heart, living with integrity, and standing firm in faith, even when it leads us into challenging or painful situations. Like Paul, we are called to be loyal, honest, humble, self-aware, and sacrificial in our relationships, grounded in the mission of Jesus Christ.
Reflecting on Paul’s life, I also find myself confronted with my imperfections—areas where I’ve allowed worry, fear, and doubt to cloud the peace and joy that come from trusting fully in God. However, through repentance and realignment, I feel His joy beginning to restore me.
What about you? Are there areas in your life where doubt or fear has clouded your vision? What steps can you take to trust more fully in God’s plan and purpose in your life? Reflect on the traits that define your closest and uplifting relationships and how you can become more like the friend, servant, and follower of Christ that Paul exemplified.
Take time over the coming days to let go of anything that may be holding you back, and embrace the freedom that comes from walking in faith in Christ alone.