A Certain Few

In his book, A Resilient Life, Gordon MacDonald notes that “God does much of His work in our lives through personal relationships.” It is certainly a biblical principle that we are to do life together. In fact, it is through the insight and impact of others that enables us to go farther and faster toward our potential.

MacDonald asks the following questions, which I found them quite challenging.

1. Who coaches you? (This person gives you the truest picture of yourself.)
2. Who stretches your mind?
3. Who listens to and encourages your dreams?
4. Who will protect you? (Example—Barnabas to the newly converted Paul)
5. Who will share your tears?
6. Who rebukes you?
7. Who plays with you? All of life cannot be serious. However, it is interesting to note that the root word for the English word “play” primarily has to do with learning. MacDonald says, “Good play is a learning experience.”
8. Who is it that seeks after God with you?

Who are the certain few that you have allowed into your life? Who are the certain few that desire to see you finish well? Surround yourself carefully because, as Andy Stanley says, “Your friends will determine the quality and direction of your life.”

I highly recommend this book, as it helped me through a difficult season in my life. One must be resilient not to quit; you cannot finish well if you continue to quit! Strive to the end.