When our friends desert us…

It must be a horrible and crushing feeling when those you counted on to support you, and always be there for you, desert you in times of trouble leaving you isolated and alone.

When false accusations come or you are persecuted for standing for truth and righteousness. Will our friends be there for us then?

If imprisoned for the sake of the gospel. Will we be disowned?

Or will we still be there to support our friends when such troubles come.

Will we be counted as faithful friends or will we bow to social pressure and disassociate ourselves.

Jesus found himself in that position and had even warned Peter, one of his closest disciples, that Peter would deny knowing him when Jesus was arrested.

Peter could not ever contemplate doing such a thing. He said he would stand by Jesus completely and even give his life for Jesus.

The truth was different. Jesus knew that all of them, even Peter, would scatter and leave him alone. Denying that they knew Jesus or were one of His followers.

The Apostle Paul encountered the same at his arrest and said:

“At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.”
2Timothy4.16-18 NASB

Even if our friends desert us there is always One who will stick closer than a brother. One who will never desert us and will prove faithful until the end. Jesus will always be there for us no matter what happens.

Is Jesus in your corner?