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Key Bible Verse: Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy (Proverbs 27:6). Bonus Reading: 2 Samuel 12:1-9

We regularly challenge the little things in each other's lives. We don't hold back. From the tone of voice we use with associates, to our negative attitudes, to our physical and spiritual health, we don't hesitate to call it out. Mike can tell Jud without any reservations, "You're being a jerk to your wife right now. Stop it and go apologize." And that goes both ways.

As Oscar Wilde said: "True friends stab you in the front."

At times we have to say things that cut deeply into one another. But if we don't say it, few people in our lives will. And here is a well-known fact: The more senior your leadership role is, the less honest criticism you'll receive from those around you. if you are responsible for someone's paycheck, then consider their "honest" opinion of you only partially true. They are holding back because calling your boss on the carpet is usually not a stellar career move.

The nice thing about our friendship is we are not connected in a professional context. This offers a lot of freedom in our conversations and cultivates a "let it fly" posture with no hindrances.

—Mike Foster & Jud Wilhite in Deadly Viper Character Assassins

My Response: Am I willing to allow my closest friend to give me a "stab in the front"? Why or why not?

Thought to Apply: Next to a sincere compliment, I think I like a well-deserved and honest rebuke.—William Feather (American publisher & author)

Adapted from Deadly Viper Character Assassins by Mike Foster and Jud Wilhite (Zondevan, 2009) by permission.

Copyright © 2009 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Lord, protect me from perfectionism and legalism. Help me to lean on you and your grace so that I might become a better man and leader.

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