Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

At first glance, the truth contained in this verse runs counter to our typical thinking. Generally, we associate “wounds” with enemies and “kisses” with our friends.  However, there are times when we need to hear something that will turn us away from danger. And, a true friend will be concerned enough about us and faithful enough to our friendship to really tell us something we may not want to hear.

On the other hand, an enemy may see us in a vulnerable place and “kiss” us with what seems to be good words and encouragement to do things we do not need to do.  The enemy will PRETEND to be our friend.  BEWARE!  What we really need is truth, even if it may hurt a bit.