Are you stuck going backward on the Demolition Derby?
I had been in line for a solid ten minutes at the Demolition Derby, my eyes fixed on the navy bumper car with the silver streak. I was with a good friend who had already chosen the red car, her favorite. While I kept a sharp watch to ensure I’d get my pick when the gate finally opened, she seemed lost in thought. Naturally, I was curious—what had caught her attention?

She had noticed a kid whose car was stuck—backward—wedged between a rail and the chaos of bumper cars. After a moment of pondering, she turned to me and said something somewhat profound, a thought that, in its simplicity, was oddly life-changing.

She said, “Poor kid. I know that's embarrassing. If I get stuck out there, you have to promise to give me a big bump and get me back on course.”

I laughed and agreed—it did sound kind of fun. But after a moment of thought, I quickly added, “Actually, promise you’ll do the same for me. Don’t let me sit there awkwardly, stuck in my navy-streaked bumper car, going backward. Just give me a big shove!”

It occurred to me then that we truly had each other’s backs. That’s why having the right people in our lives is so important. True friends are there to lift us when we stumble, offering both practical help and spiritual encouragement. The best friends are consistent, standing by us not only in good times but also when life feels like its going backward or we're stuck in a rut.

We all face moments like that—times when we stumble, feel stuck, or start moving in the wrong direction. That’s when those friends become invaluable. They’re the ones who give us a needed push toward growth, helping us become better versions of ourselves. Reflecting on this challenges me to be that kind of friend for others.

When choosing the people in your life—or even your riding partners at a theme park—consider the value of good friendships. These relationships are gifts from God, meant to nurture both our spiritual and personal growth. They offer accountability, encouragement, and love, mirroring the very nature of Christ. True friendships are essential to living a godly, fulfilling life.

But don’t take my word for it—check out what the Word says:

• Read Proverbs 12:20 which teaches that the people we spend time with shape who we are. 
• Check out John 15:12-13 - True friendship reflects Jesus’ love through selflessness and sacrifice. 
• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 syas that friends are meant to support and inspire each other, especially in tough times. 
• And Galatians 6:2 reminds us that a good friend shares both joys and struggles.

Take it from me: next time you visit your favorite theme park and get in line to ride the bumper cars, pick the fastest car, buckle up, and make sure you have a friend there to give you a big shove if you get stuck going the wrong way.