Thursday, April 1 A true friend shows love at all times.​—Prov. 17:17.

[Áine]

Thursday, April 1

A true friend shows love at all times.—Prov. 17:17.

 

Aristarchus, a Macedonian Christian from Thessalonica, proved to be a loyal friend to the apostle Paul. We first read about Aristarchus when Paul visited Ephesus on his third missionary tour. While accompanying Paul, Aristarchus was captured by a mob. (Acts 19:29) When he was finally set free, he did not seek his own safety but loyally stayed with Paul. Some months later, in Greece, Aristarchus was still at Paul’s side even though opposers continued to threaten Paul’s life. (Acts 20:2-4) In about 58 C.E. when Paul was sent to Rome as a prisoner, Aristarchus accompanied him on the long journey, and together they endured shipwreck along the way. (Acts 27:1, 2, 41) Once in Rome, he apparently spent some time in prison with Paul. (Col. 4:10) Little wonder that Paul felt encouraged and comforted by such a loyal companion! Like Aristarchus, we can be a loyal friend by sticking to our brothers and sisters not only in good times but also during “times of distress.” w20.01 9 ¶4-5

[Sister Twister]

Having a true friend requires us to also be a true friend . A true friend doesn't leave you in the bad times they are the times you see what a good friend that you have.

 

Brothers and sisters can actually become closer then family , often making up for loosing close relationships with family who are not in the truth or perhaps leave the truth.

 

Artistarchus is not often someone we think about but there is a good chance that his friendship , loyalty and support may have helped Paul through his trials.

[Alexa]

We appreciate our brothers and sisters who stick with us during our trials. 

[Vinnie]

Even though it takes work to keep a good true friendship alive like any relationship, it is well worth the effort.  Some of the greatest  friendships can come from the most unexpected of places and sometimes it just takes jumping in with both feet and say here I am , i will attach myself to you and be your friend come what may, kind of like Ruth and Naomi.  But once you put all fear aside beautiful things can happen when it comes to being a friend.