Worth the time...

Sling Blade

In chapter 4, Meeting Frank, we begin to see the relationship that forms between Karl and Frank as they meet outside the local laundromat.  Karl helps Frank carry home the families' wash to his house as they get to know more about each other.   Frank is undeterred by Karl as he reveals his past history and accepts him as he is.

Romans 14:1-4

 ¹ Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don't see things the way you do. And don't jump all over them every time they do or say something you don't agree with—even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently.

 ^2-4For instance, a person who has been around for a while might well be convinced that he can eat anything on the table, while another, with a different background, might assume he should only be a vegetarian and eat accordingly. But since both are guests at Christ's table, wouldn't it be terribly rude if they fell to criticizing what the other ate or didn't eat? God, after all, invited them both to the table. Do you have any business crossing people off the guest list or interfering with God's welcome? If there are corrections to be made or manners to be learned, God can handle that without your help.

In chapter 18, Football, we see the progression of Karl and Frank's relationship as they play football with some other boys at the junior high football field.  Karl sets up Frank to score and further shows his love for Frank by telling him that he's proud of him.  Karl looks to help fill the gulf left by Frank's departed father in ways rather simplistic, but otherwise paramount to young Frank.

1 Corinthians 4:13-15

¹³When we are slandered and defamed, we [try to] answer softly and bring comfort. We have been made and are now the rubbish and filth of the world [the offscouring of all things, the scum of the earth].

    ¹⁴I do not write this to shame you, but to warn and counsel you as my beloved children.

    ¹⁵After all, though you should have ten thousand teachers (guides to direct you) in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the glad tidings (the Gospel).

In chapter 21, Goodbye, we witness the last time that Frank and Karl will see one another.  Karl has decided what course of action he must take to provide a safe future for Frank and his mom in the only way that he knows how.  He makes sure that Frank knows that he is loved and that their friendship will not be affected by what happens in the future.  

Proverbs 27:8-10

⁸ People who won't settle down, wandering hither and yon,
   are like restless birds, flitting to and fro.

 ⁹ Just as lotions and fragrance give sensual delight,
   a sweet friendship refreshes the soul.

 ¹⁰ Don't leave your friends or your parents' friends
   and run home to your family when things get rough;
Better a nearby friend
   than a distant family.