Friend and friends

A Bible verse that solves a lot of problems is Proverbs 18:24, A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Do you find yourself with few friends?

Do you need a good friend?

Are you a friend to others?

Do you understand what true friendship is?

How close is your brother?

Who’s this friend that sticks closer than a brother?

Many, many women—my counseling is with women—sit at home thinking, “Oh, how I wish I had a friend to do (this) with.” They sit there moping, having their own little pity party, and they wonder why they don’t have a friend (or friends). A cell phone sits on the lamp stand while they wait in vain for a call. They don’t go out, because they have no idea with whom to go out. They wait for a friendly e-mail or for someone to “friend” them on social networking sites . . . and it doesn’t happen.

What’s the problem? Read the verse: A man (or woman) that hath friends must shew himself (herself) friendly.

The book of Proverbs contains much practical advice from God about all kinds of relationships. This verse in particular is full of good teaching. Let’s look at it. The first half, if you turn it around, seems to indicate that you need to be friendly in order to have friends. This is so true! So workable!

How do you do that? Some people have no clue how to befriend someone, simply because their family background was somewhat unfriendly. But, it isn’t so hard. The Bible says, Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them (Matthew 7:12a). Do you want someone to do (whatever) with? Call someone, and invite her to do it with you. Do you want someone to call you just to talk? Call her just to talk. Do you want someone to e-mail you? E-mail her and say something encouraging. Do you want friends on your favorite social networking site? “Friend” them. Do you want to do lunch with someone? Invite someone. Do you want someone to care about you? Care about her. Get active in your church’s ministry. Encourage and mentor others. You will soon have friends!

The second part of this verse says there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. The old saying “blood is thicker than water” comes to mind. Your brother (or sister) is yours. He is close to you. He is family. This verse refers to Jesus Christ. If you know Him as your personal Savior, He is your elder brother. He is family. He is closer than any brother, because He knows your thoughts and understands your heart. He promises to meet all your needs. With Jesus, you have the best Friend.

Be a friend, have friends, and enjoy your Friend. God bless you!