Placebo Friends

“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” (Proverbs 27:17 NLT)

True friends are a rare gift. They care enough to be available. They reach out and help when we need them. They are consistent and truthful. They strengthen our character. We are better human beings because of them.

However, since true friends are so hard to find, we often settle for placebo friends. A placebo is something that gives you a false sense of satisfaction but no real benefit. Placebo friends make us feel like we are actively involved in relationships. We go out, we have them over to our homes, we do activities, we talk, we take trips, we buy each other gifts, and we share secrets. From the outside, it looks like we are good friends. Yet, there is no growth in our character. In fact, these relationships merely distract and drain us in the long run. We are no better off than we were before we ever met.

True friends sharpen and improve each other. We do not remain dull and blunt. Instead, we become more effective because of our friendship. We challenge each other to become better human beings. Like good medicine, we heal, comfort, and strengthen each other. 

I pray that we may all have true friends and be true friends.