I have enjoyed the blessings of many loyal friends over many years. Not all my friends are the same either. What I mean by that is this… I have some friends that I have certain things in common and then other friends that I have completely different things in common. I have some friends who are quite a bit older than me some that are just a few years, some the same, and some quite a bit younger than me. It has been a blessing to have such a diverse spectrum of friends. One thing I know is this: Having friends is a cherished aspect of my life and I know the Bible provides profound insights into the significance of loyal friends. The Scriptures offer wisdom on the qualities of true friendship and the impact it can have on our lives. Let’s explore what the Bible says about the value of loyal friends.
The Book of Proverbs is filled with verses highlighting the importance of loyal friends. Proverbs 18:24 declares, “A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” This verse emphasizes the depth and steadfastness of a true friend, someone who stands by you through thick and thin.
In Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Solomon reflects on the value of companionship, stating that “two are better than one.” He acknowledges that having a loyal friend means having someone to help, support, and encourage you in times of need. The passage beautifully describes the strength derived from unity, stating that a cord of three strands is not easily broken. The friendship between David and Jonathan is a clear illustration of loyalty and devotion.
In 1 Samuel 18:1, it is written, “After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.” Despite the challenges and conflicts that arose, Jonathan’s loyalty to David remained steadfast, demonstrating the power of a true and loyal friend.
In John 15:13, Jesus Himself sets the ultimate standard for friendship, stating, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” This sacrificial love is the epitome of loyalty, emphasizing the depth of commitment and selflessness that true friendship entails.
The Bible also encourages us to be discerning when it comes to friendships. Proverbs 13:20 advises, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” This verse highlights the impact that friends can have on our lives and urges us to choose companions who uplift and encourage us in our faith and journey.
The value of loyal friends is consistently emphasized in the Scriptures and I understand that God wants us to have loyal friends and wants us to be loyal friends. From the wisdom of Proverbs to the examples set by David and Jonathan, the Scriptures teach us that genuine, loyal friendships are treasures to be cherished. Jesus underlines the sacrificial nature of true friendship, mirroring the ultimate example He set Himself in his sacrifice on the cross. My prayer today is that we will be motivated by what the Scriptures teach on friendship and that we will seek to cultivate friendships that reflect the enduring loyalty and love described in God’s Word. Let’s be friends to the end!
For the Lord,
Alex
Happy Birthday to one of my best friends, Jesse Alan Cargill! You are a great example of what it means to be a loyal friend! Thank you.