Faithful Friendship… “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel. Do not forsake your friend and the friend of your father.” Proverbs 27:9-10a
Faithful friendships for the Christian are based on Christ. His character becomes the caliber of relationship enjoyed by both parties. You attempt to out serve each other because Jesus served others first above Himself. Best friends forever look for ways to love without fanfare and their expectations are an exhibition in giving, not receiving. They celebrate this transaction of double blessing. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than receive” (Acts 20:35). They are a pleasant aroma that brings joy to each other’s hearts.
It is good to have friends in close proximity. You enjoy their company because it is a safe and secure environment to be yourself. You can laugh heartily and cry unashamedly. Do you have a close confidant who gives you earnest counsel? Do you have a trusted advisor full of wisdom and discernment? Look to friends of the family who have a track record of faithfulness and wise advice. You honor your parents when you honor their friends.
Faithful friendships are a reflection of your relationship with the Lord. They are permanent, full of grace and truth. Is there a faithful friendship I need to rekindle by reaching out with a phone call or visit? Who do I need to express gratitude because of their faithful friendship all these years? “After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD made him prosperous again and gave him twice as much as he had before” (Job 42:10).
Related Readings: Ezra 10:2-5; Song of Songs 4:10; Acts 28:15; 2 Corinthians 2:15-16
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
How will I respond?
