Friendship can involve risk.

One day while Jesus was teaching in someone’s home, word spread of His presence and a crowd formed. Soon the house became so filled that no one outside could see or hear Jesus (except for a paralyzed man with friends who tore through the roof to get in). The familiar story of the man lowered through the rafters is often mentioned to illustrate “faith-in-action”:

“When Jesus saw their faith, He said, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.”” – Mark 2:5 NKJV

It’s easy to forget that people in scripture (like those mentioned in Mark chapter 2) didn’t know the outcome beforehand. They had no guarantee Jesus would heal their friend. For all they knew they were risking exposure to ridicule, failure, and misunderstanding. However, as they executed their plan, Jesus saw their faith. He knew their motive was to help a friend, not to make a scene or become famous “party-crashers”.

Is fear preventing you from doing or saying something regarding a friend? If the motive and timing are both right, take courage and prayerfully go forward. If either one of them aren’t, then wait, continue to pray, and trust the Lord’s leading.