Who Are Your Friends?
by Dan Jones, M.D.
Philippians 1:4
In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now...
Paul easily expressed his deep appreciation and devotion for these believers in Philippi. He had friendships with Christians in many places, but the relationship with these was special because they were his partners in the Gospel. They understood and appreciated what Paul's life was about. And they repeatedly demonstrated their love and concern for Paul in tough times. At the time of writing this letter, Paul was in prison in Rome. His friends from Philippi had sent provisions and one of their own to help care for Paul.
Do you have special relationships with friends or loved ones who really understand your heart? These friendships are worth seeking out. These friendships can help us through the long hard days of medical training.
Because my faith is first and foremost among my life's priorities, any true, deep friendship with me must be based on a mutual understanding of that faith. The friends I can turn to in tough times are all believers.
Among my "believing friends", those who share as part of God's plan for their lives the desire to share God's love with others through the health professions have a special place in my heart. Like no one else, they can understand and appreciate my desires, needs, frustrations, and joys.
One day, early in my practice, I was particularly frustrated with the constant pressure of people needing me. A senior professional colleague suggested ways I could insulate myself such as avoiding public places when I was "off". One day at church, I saw another professional colleague being cornered in the hallway for medical advice. He responded to this patient with a big smile and a word of advice and encouragement. I decided I needed to ask him for advice on my problem. His response surprised me. Rather than planning avoidance techniques, he suggested I follow his attitude and approach. He noted that he considered every question asked him or advice sought a compliment to him and a privilege to use his God-given skill as a physician. He showed me the privilege of living my professional life as part of God's plan in my life and a part of His plan for sharing the gospel.
That day, this physician became a life-long friend and role model. He understood when others could not. Whenever I think of him now "I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel".
Lord, thank you for the joy of Christian friends in the profession.
Dan Jones, M.D., MACP, FAHA, a board-certified Internist, a former medical missionary to Korea, professor of medicine at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine, Dean of the School of Medicine, and Chancellor of the University of Mississippi until 2015. Dr. Dan Jones is a member of CMDA.
Dr. Jones welcomes any comments or questions about what he has written and can be reached at - djones@umc.edu
Rounds with the Master, Spiritual Pearls from the Great Physician Devotionals are released every Monday and Thursday.
Photo by Kimson Doan on Unsplash
