Philippians 2:12-30

Philippians 2:20-22 (MSG)
 I have no one quite like Timothy. He is loyal, and genuinely concerned for you. Most people around here are looking out for themselves, with little concern for the things of Jesus. But you know yourselves that Timothy's the real thing. He's been a devoted son to me as together we've delivered the Message.

If you can't say something good about someone, don't say anything at all. But, if there is much good to tell, by all means, shout it from the roof tops. There is nothing better than to acknowledge a special friend, a unique relationship existing in a time of testing.

Paul isn't shy about singing Timothy's praises and bragging up his loyalty and compassion. Actually, there is nothing quite as comforting as a very good friend. Real friends take time to know and understand you. They aren't easily put off because they know you well and recognize your heart. They are able to appreciate you even when you aren't at your finest.

Based on Paul's compliments of Timothy, I think I would like to meet him. Paul calls him, the real thing. Some of us might interpret that to be--what you see is what you get. There is nothing phony or unreal about Timothy. He probably tells it like it is, never hedging the truth or responding in a wishy-washy manner. Timothy can be trusted.

Not only should we look for individuals with these qualities to call friend, we should be this type of person to others we relate with. Not everyone we meet will become a close friend, but we can be real and genuine with everyone. Close friends don't always think and act alike, in fact some are downright opposite, but the commonality rests in the heart.

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