A man of many companions may come to ruin,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24
There are many types of friendships. We can have a friend at work, church or through a volunteer ministry, but a deep, lasting friendship is a rare find. Deep friendships consists of being completely transparent and honest with each other, knowing you are being listened to, valued, and respected. At the same time, a close friend will lovingly correct you but faithfully walk beside you (Proverbs 27:17). While it is wonderful to find a true friend like that in this lifetime, we have an eternal friend who sticks closer than a brother – never wavering through emotion or circumstance. That is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He will always listen to you and knows your needs even before you ask him (Matthew 6:8). He is your Counselor and Guide, one that will meet you right where you are, and help you keep going when circumstances seem bleak, encouraging you in the victories that He gives you (Romans 8:37). While we have the great privilege of being a servant of God, Jesus sees us as a friend and co-heir with Him in the Kingdom (John 15:15; Romans 8:17). Even if you are struggling to make deep, lasting friendships, or in the midst of developing friendships with people here on Earth, be reminded that you have the best and most trustworthy friend every moment of the day in Jesus Christ! He will never fail or disappoint you, and he loves you immensely! Praise the Lord that His care and compassion are unending!
Prayer
Heavenly Father. I thank you that I can come to you, through your dear Son and my beloved Savior, and like Abraham I am counted as your friend because of the righteousness of Christ (James 2:23). Being your friend, a friend of the Creator of the heavens and the earth, I can joyfully come to you with all of my cares, concerns and praises knowing that you hear the prayers of the righteous (1 Peter 3:12). I am deeply grateful for your unconditional love and friendship, and that you will never leave me or forsake me (Deuteronomy 31:8). May I continue to cherish what you have done for me and the eternal friendship that I share with you.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.