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Key Bible Verse: Share each other's troubles and problems (Galatians 6:2). Bonus Reading: Proverbs 17:17; 20:6

Dan and I have been friends for nearly 20 years. We meet regularly for breakfast to share about our faith, families, sports … what's happening in our lives.

Recently, Dan, a solid guy with a solid faith, said, "I saw my doctor this week. He said indicators show I have a 25 percent chance of having prostate cancer."

"Have you set up an appointment for a biopsy to find out?" I asked. Dan said he was undecided about taking the test, adding that he'd heard disturbing reports about it.

"Dan," I said, "I encourage you to take the test. If it comes back negative, you'll be relieved. But if it comes back positive, you'll be better placed to deal with it." After a period of silence, I continued, "Mind if I call you until you set up an appointment?"

"No, stay on top of it."

Several days later, I asked Dan if he'd made an appointment. He hadn't, so I asked him if he could set it up by the next Friday. He answered "yes."

Friday afternoon, I called Dan. He said he'd made the appointment and would get back to me with the results. Days later he called with obvious relief: "It's negative." We celebrated.

—James Hilt, a counselor

My Response: Do I invest regular time and energy in my friendships?

Thought to Apply: A friend is—a push when you've stopped; a word when you're lonely; a guide when you're searching; a smile when you're sad; a song when you're glad. —Charlie "Tremendous" Jones (insurance agent, speaker)

Prayer for the Week

Thank you, Father, for the gift of true friends. Help me to value my friendships and keep them in good repair.

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