Loyalty

Loyalty is so important in any relationship. It is what builds trust and creates an environment for honesty. I have seen so many who lack loyalty in their lives. Affairs, gossip and even an unwillingness to confront issues in a friends life often arises from a lack of loyalty and commitment. Loyalty is hanging tight with someone when their life is falling apart all around them. It is willing to listen and discuss the hard issues of life. It is open to constructive criticism because their has been a mutual, often unspoken agreement to be loyal to each other. It is knowing that they have your back. It is a foundation for what God calls Fellowship. That deep quality of friendship that David and Jonathan had. Willing to take a bullet for each other and stand up for the other in the midst of a barrage of criticism.

Where has loyalty gone? I think in our consumer driven culture we treet our relationships like our car insurance company. If we find a better deal, bam, we are gone. If things get a little tough or they get a little to close or say the wrong thing or speak into our life, bam, we are gone. Deep relationships require honesty and loyalty. You cannot have one without the other. Am I a loyal friend. I hope so.