Law 2 Never put too Much Trust in Friends, Learn how to use Enemies

Be wary of friends-they will betray you more quickly, for they are easily aroused to envy. They also become spoiled and tyrannical. But hire a former enemy and he will be more loyal than a friend, because he has more to prove. In fact, you have more to fear from friends than from enemies. If you have no enemies, find a way to make them.

by Robert Greene and Joost Elffers

A Christian will count on his friends being weaker than himself and his God given mission. He generally has no heavenly reason to judge his friend. There is little time for that when one is on a mission to show Christ to the world. One way to show christ to the world is by putting the interests of our fiends and enemies right up there with our own and praying for God’s insight and path to something positive in this life that continues into the future.

The whole context of building something positive into the future with God in the lead is a purpose for life that is not at risk of a friend’s envy. One does not generate inward or outward enemies in this world by treating your neighbor as you would treat yourself. Even if you generate enemies (I suppose Mother Teresa had enemies in the corners) when one puts on the Armour of God only long term positive growth will come from the battle so in some respects expect it and arm yourself with God’s word for protection of your mission.

Romans chapters 12-14
2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.20 On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.

Ephesians chapter 6:10-19
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place,15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Please use the comments to tell the stories or refute the post. Thanks.

by Tom Wolfgram