Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. Proverbs 27:6 (NLT)
We all want relationships that are supportive, strong, happy and fun. We want people around us who we can trust and who trust us; friends who can have a good time but are also willing to help us up when we fail and lend a shoulder when we need someone to lean on.
To develop strong relationships, be willing to talk about the issues that stand between you. Those who refuse to deal with conflict only develop superficial relationships or a series of short-term relationships that drift apart at the first sign of conflict. Others dance around each other’s hot buttons and are careful not to rock the boat. Really strong friendships can only form between people who are willing to broach the truth.
Even though it is uncomfortable, be willing to accept the truth. According to Proverbs 9:8 (NLT), those who accept correction are wise. It says “don’t bother correcting mockers; they will only hate you. But correct the wise, and they will love you.” We all have blind spots: problems in our life that we do not see. When we have strong, healthy relationships, we can count on those around us to point out what we do not notice.
When you remain open to being confronted with truth, although it may hurt, you will be better for it. Great friends develop an ability to coach one another to be the best they can be.