"We need to measure very carefully who our true friends are. The measure of a true friend is one who will not have us choose between his way and the Lord’s way. A true friend makes it easier for us to live the commandments of the Lord. A true friend will not let us do anything we want. True friends will correct us when we do something wrong and bring us back on the straight and narrow path that leads to exaltation.
"Every one of us needs to know when to walk or run away from those who would call themselves friends but in reality are not. Joseph of old recognized the evil in Potiphar’s wife and ran from it (see Genesis 39:7–12). We too must recognize evil and shun it. If we allow machoism to overtake our personal lives and influence choices and decisions we make, we can severely limit our progression in this life and in the eternities."
- Robert D. Hales, "Return with Honor," CES fireside address on 3 May 1998; see Ensign, June 1999, 12
Click here to read the full talk
The value and importance of "true friends" is hard to quantify. I love this description from Elder Hales about what that kind of friendship includes:
The ability to choose friends wisely becomes critical in our time. We need to carefully avoid those who might offer a form of friendship, but in ways that are more detrimental than beneficial to us. That only underscores the value of a true friend. It's a rare gift, one that should be treasured and held closely!
(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)
No comments:
Post a Comment