A True Friend

A True Friend

Q: Which describes a real friend?

• a. someone who can bear a crushed spirit
• b. someone who is the first to speak up
• c. someone who sticks closer than a brother

In the movie The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, based on one of the books in the Chronicles of Narnia series, Edmund and Lucy are transported to the Narnian ship the Dawn Treader through a painting of the ship. Along with them is their annoying cousin Eustace, who doesn’t believe in Narnia or magic.

Eustace sulks over his fate, causing the crew to ignore or dislike him. Eustace takes an instant dislike to Reepicheep, a large talking mouse. However, when Eustace is turned into a dragon, it is Reepicheep who stays with him night and day, encouraging him. Through his interactions with Reepicheep, Eustace becomes a much more likable person. The two remain friends once Eustace is human again, and there is sadness as they part at the end of the movie.

Reepicheep demonstrates the traits of a true friend. He remains loyal during hard and trying times. He is an encourager, and he spurs Eustace to greater heights. Reepicheep sees the good in Eustace and believes in him.

Since you can’t have a talking mouse as your best friend, you’ll have to find a human who, like Reepicheep, is loyal, is an encourager, and believes the best of you. And even more importantly, you can be that kind of friend to someone else.

For You

Human friends will fail you, but Jesus never will. Make him your best friend, because he loves you more than anyone on earth is capable of loving you. You can talk to him and share your good times and bad just as you would with any friend.

Answer: c

There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.   Proverbs 18:24

(The Whole Story: Proverbs 18)