I just replied to an e-mail from a very special friend. Johnny was kind enough to express appreciation for my friendship and his desire that the friendship continue to grow. I was pleased to not only return the greetings but the genuine respect for the relationship God has given us. Friendship is a very special gift from Heaven. I never take the compliment of being referred to as one’s friend lightly. What an honor!
 
Through my many years of youth ministries, I have challenged thousands of students to choose their friends wisely. My admonishment has been to select relationships that will make them a better person just to be with them. You should always desire to fellowship with people that raise the bar in your own life. I am convinced it makes me a better person to be with those that challenge me by their own life.
 
The Lord has honored me with just such friends. There are too many to mention by name. They are across the nation and around the world. They are my colleagues in the office. They are even within my own family. Many are the friends that dare me to become better.