Thursday, September 22, 2016

THE VALUE OF A FRIEND

In Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, we read: “Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up.”


“Come quick, Grandfather.” Timmy leaned over, put his hands on his knees to catch his breath. “I need your help.”

“What’s the trouble?”

“Bobby’s hurt. Fell out of the tree and he’s scared.”

“And he’s...?”

“In the apple orchard,” Timmy completed Grandfather's sentence.

“Hop in my truck.” At the orchard, Grandfather got out, ran over to Bobby. “Arm hurts bad, huh?” Bobby nodded. “Easy now.”  Grandfather lifted Bobby into the truck and headed for the Emergency Room.

“He climbed high in the apple tree--wouldn’t come down. Then a limb broke and he fell.” Timmy looked at Grandfather. “Is it my fault?” Grandfather shook his head but before he could explain, the doctor walked over.

 “He’s a lucky boy. Broke his ulna but it’s a clean brake. Are you the responsible party?”

Grandfather nodded. “I couldn’t reach his parents, left a message. I’ll care for  him and see he gets home.” He heard a voice, looked up. “There’s his mom now.”

The situation explained, an unhappy Bobby went home with his mom, Timmy with Grandfather.

I’ve climbed higher than I should. Too many times. Taken too many chances. Without the friend watching out for me. But truth be known, my Friend’s been there all along. But I ignored His warnings. He, the Lord Jesus, loves me with an everlasting love and He promises never to leave nor forsake me. He takes the worst things in my life, teaches me His love and uses them to His Glory.

Kingdom Thinking.  No one else can take my mistakes, put them in his Holy Recycling Bin and under heat and pressure, use them for His Glory and my good. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come to Him? He waits for you.