Proverbs 27:5-6 (KJV)"Open rebuke is better than secret love. [6] Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful."
Tamara and Briana were best friends, known for their honesty and loyalty to each other. One day, during a group project at church, Tamara noticed that Briana often dismissed other members' ideas and insisted on her way. It wasn’t intentional; Briana was passionate and eager to see the project succeed. However, her approach was causing tension, and some group members were quietly withdrawing.
After much prayer, Tamara decided to speak with Briana. “Briana,” she said gently, “I love how committed you are to the project, but I’ve noticed something. Sometimes, when you push your ideas too strongly, others feel like their contributions aren’t valued. I know it’s not your intention, but it’s starting to affect the team.”
Briana felt a sting of embarrassment. She trusted Tamara, but the correction hurt. At first, her pride wanted to dismiss it. “Tamara, you know I’m just trying to keep things on track,” she replied defensively.
Tamara nodded. “I understand, and I admire that. But part of leading well is making others feel heard. You’ve got the heart for it—I know you can do this.”
Later that evening, as Briana reflected on Tamara’s words, she realized her friend was right. The next day, she apologized to the group and encouraged everyone to share their ideas. To her surprise, the project improved dramatically, and the team felt more united. Briana later thanked Tamara, saying, “It hurt to hear, but I’m grateful you cared enough to tell me the truth.”
Just like Briana, we may feel defensive or hurt when corrected by a peer or friend. But when we approach these situations with humility, they can lead to growth and stronger relationships. Proverbs 27:6 reminds us that the wounds of a friend are faithful—they come from a place of love and care.
God places people in our lives, like Tamara, to sharpen us and help us become better versions of ourselves (Proverbs 27:17). True friends prioritize your growth over comfort and are willing to risk awkwardness for the sake of your well-being.
Let us strive to be like Briana, humbly accepting correction, and like Tamara, lovingly giving it when needed. In doing so, we fulfill James 5:16—confessing our faults to one another and praying for each other, leading to healing and restoration.
Reflection Question:
Who in your life has spoken the truth in love to you? How can you respond in humility and gratitude?
Similarly, is there someone God is calling you to gently correct in love today?
—Abraham Damilola Arigi
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Bible In 1 Year: II Chronicles 25-28 (in today's audio)
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