Bring out the Worst

I was once told to always play golf with people you are interviewing for a job…because it brings out the worst in people. Golf does have a way of revealing our temper, impatience, or any number of any other character flaws. Maybe that’s why I don’t play that much anymore.

Last week I had a chance to go play out in the desert with some friends. It was indeed fun. But, in order to be friends AND play golf together, you have to learn to overlook each other’s cracks in the armor. We can encourage and support each other, but remember, golf has a way of bringing out our worst at times.

That all reminded me of this verse in Proverbs 17:

“Overlook an offense and bond a friendship; fasten on to a slight and—good-bye, friend!” (Proverbs 17:9 MSG)

Chances are, you have friends that are far from perfect. At times we choose to keep our distance for a number of reasons, but there are also those times when we lean in. We know the flaws, but through grace we extend our willingness to grow a friendship anyway.

I, for one, am thankful for friends who know me…and still want to be around me. How about you?