Kendrick Vinar

Here’s one sign of a good friend: someone who can really be happy for you when you’re happy. And… someone who can be bummed with you when you’re bummed. Unfortunately, we can often be self-centered or just busy and not slow down to empathize with others.

Have you ever called a friend and just wanted to share some good news? It’s so great when someone listens wells and is just excited with you. It’s a drag when the person hardly hears you or one ups you with what’s been even more amazing in his/her life.

Have you ever called a friend to dump your rotten day and vent? One person simply listens empathetically and you’re deeply helped by sharing your heart and processing. Another tries to fix the situation, and you hang up frustrated.

There’s a time for problem solving or even having a tough conversation. Just don’t start there.

The Bible gives us this practical insight on being a good friend: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” (Rom 12:15 [show]<div class="esv"><h2>Romans 12:15 <object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://www.esvapi.org/assets/play.swf?myUrl=hw%2F45012015" width="40" height="12" class="audio"><param name="movie" value="http://www.esvapi.org/assets/play.swf?myUrl=hw%2F45012015" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /></object></h2> <div class="esv-text"><p id="p45012015.01-1"><span class="verse-num" id="v45012015-1">15&nbsp;</span>Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. (<a href="http://www.esv.org" class="copyright">ESV</a>)</p> </div> </div>
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Take the great advice and practice it on others. Slow down. Tune in. You’ll be a true friend by simply rejoicing with those who rejoice, and weeping with those who weep.

Happy Valentine’s Day.