One Sure Way To Avoid A Smackdown

Do you ever feel like you’ve just been in a smackdown?  Here’s one sure and simple way to avoid some raw pain.

I literally laughed out loud when I saw this penguin animation posted by a facebook friend.  She had written, “With friends like these, who needs enemies?”  How true that is!  At one time or another we’ve all been blind-sided or tripped up by someone we thought was a friend.

The Bible says, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)  The people you allow into your life have a dramatic impact (excuse the pun) on how well you walk out your Christianity.  Those with whom you surround yourself are the ones who will either help you up when you fall, or help you fall when you’re up.

One of the very best ways to avoid the pain of an emotional smackdown is to surround yourself with friends who are loving and supportive.  Don’t allow those who are critical, negative, mean or abusive into your circle.

One final thought – there are times when you may need a loving “whack” on the back of the head from a true friend if you’re doing something foolish.  Don’t make the mistake of having no friends who will disagree and give you good objective counsel.  Just because someone disagrees with some of your behavior doesn’t mean they are negative or critical.  You need friends who will speak into your life to help you avoid some of life’s biggest smackdowns. Seriously, you deeply need to listen to those who disagree.  This may come as a surprise to some, but you’re not always right!

The Bottom Line
Surround yourself with godly friends who really care about you, and listen when they give you advice or warning.

“The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.” –Proverbs 12:15