Wherever you live and whatever you do, you’ll have to deal with these three kinds of people at some point: 1) The critic. Let’s be honest, most people are comfortable with the status quo. Not only do they fear change, they’ll often attack it. So if you dare to be different, prepare to sail through some rough seas. The apostle Paul’s critics described him as a madman, a fool, and a babbler. If he received that treatment, we mustn't expect them to treat us any better. We need to be prepared to face harsh words if we want to change things. 2) The calculating. These people won’t point an accusing finger, but they probably won’t extend a helping hand either – unless it benefits them. When you get into trouble, they might distance themselves from you, scared that they could be tainted by association. Basically, they’ll wait to see if you make it through the tunnel and come out the other side. Then they’ll wait to see who else accepts you and if you can be of benefit to them. Then they might reconnect with you. These people are users. They’re not bad; they’re just self-serving. So love them, but don’t lean on them. 3) The committed. ‘A friend loves at all times, and is born, as is a brother, for adversity.’ Even when they hear the worst about you, the committed person still believes the best about you. They value you for your strengths and show grace in handling your weaknesses. These people are priceless because they’ll love you ‘at all times’. So when God puts a person like that into your life, learn to protect, value, and nurture them, and thank God for their friendship.