“As you know, everyone from the province of Asia has deserted me—even Phygelus and Hermogenes.”
2 TIMOTHY 1:15

Friends Can Disappoint 2 Tim 1:15

One of the most heartbreaking events in life is when someone you love and depend on deserts you in a time of need. A wise person once said, “If you want to know who your true friends are, try to borrow money or get sick.” Perhaps no book in Scripture illustrates the issues of abandonment in times of need like 2 Timothy.

When Paul was in prison and needed support, most of Paul’s friends were conveniently absent. Some abandoned the true faith altogether (2:17-18), which must have deeply wounded Paul as he suffered behind bars for defending the very truths they had forsaken. Demas deserted Paul because he loved “the things of this life” (4:10).

People with disabilities take friendship very seriously. Because they are often excluded by others, their circle of friends may be quite small. But if you take the time to be a caring friend, you’ll find that they are fiercely loyal and loving—and you’ll have a friend for life. And just like anybody, they are deeply hurt when friends prove to be untrue.

The enticements of this world tempt us away from remaining faithful to friends and family. Ultimately, Paul’s hope was not in people but in the Lord. Paul recognized that his decision to remain faithful to the Lord could not depend on the faithfulness of others, no matter what disappointments he faced (1:12).

While we praise God for faithful friends and followers like Timothy, we should follow Paul’s example and keep our eyes on the One who “will deliver [us] from every evil attack and will bring [us] safely into his heavenly Kingdom. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen” (4:18).