Quantity Or Quality?

How do you define the word “friend?” Is a “friend” someone who is “special” or “unique” or “close” or “a good listener” or “dependable to help when I’m in trouble?” One of these, all of these, or none of these? Do you have someone whom you call “friend?” Have you ever had what you would call a “friend?” Would you know one if you have one?

I have a “friend” who often calls me his “best friend” when we are engaged in a conversation. Yet, in the same conversation, he talks of others as being “my best friend.” So, which is it? Am I the “best” friend? OR, are we all “best friends?” Confused? Perhaps that’s what happens when we make an attempt to define “friend.”

Solomon wrote, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to trouble, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” In the Hebrew language the first word, “friend” is better interpreted as “companion” – meaning one who is “physically present for a particular purpose or time.” The second time the word appears, it is best interpreted as one with whom there is “an emotional bonding,” – a connectedness that is unbreakable. The “companion” is a “casual acquaintance” who is unreliable, untrustworthy, lacks discernment, and God’s wisdom.

Most of us have experienced both. Unfortunately, though, there have been “friends who were bonded to us” who disappointed and abandoned when adversity invaded our lives. Enter Jesus, Who said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you!” Jesus delights in not only calling us “servants” but “friends.” How blest we are to know that the risen Christ refuses to abandon us!”

PRAYER: We love You, Father, for being our “friend!” We take comfort in knowing that although we may forsake You, You will never forsake us. Never! Thank you, In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 18:24 One who has unreliable friends soon comes to trouble, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.