Read Proverbs 17 – 19
A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24 KJV
A friend is someone who shares similar interests, brings out the best in you, and stands by you when there is trouble. Many do not feel they have such friends. The problem is we often wait for others to first be friendly to us. Here we are taught the opposite; to have friends we must first show ourselves friendly. We need to be involved with others, seek their best, and stand by them. People who take this later approach will have friends because they make them. I like the second half of this proverb. To have one close friend is better than many friends. Again the former principle applies. Close friends do not happen by accident, they are developed as we first show ourselves to be a trustworthy friend. Jesus Christ is such a friend. He has given Himself for us, seeks our very best, is always available, and promises to never leave us. Have you responded to His friendship?
Lord, while I was still Your enemy You sought me, You died in my place to bring out my best, and as promised, You have never forsaken me. Though I do not deserve it, You call me friend (John 15:13-15). Thank You for being a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
A question to ponder: Jesus is a friend who sticks closer than a brother, how have I responded to Him? He has shown Himself friendly, have I?
