A True Christian Friend is Closer Than a Brother

As Christians, we are challenged daily to show ourselves friendly to Christians and non-Christians alike. “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly; and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother” [Proverbs 18:24]. God calls us to be a friend at all times to all, not just those we may “click with” or our “favorite people.”

It is easy to spend time with those who we are close with, our best friend, or even a fellow Christian who is an encouragement. However, God calls us to a deeper level of friendship. In Proverbs 17:17, “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” King Solomon, the author of most of the Proverbs, teaches us here about the importance of consistency in our relationships with others, in word and deed. Friendship isn’t just a badge you may wear proudly during the good times, but remove if you so choose. Friendship is dedication to another’s heart, soul, and success. If we are to be true, Godly friends, tough times and disappointments won’t phase the grounded support we owe each one.
We are tested in this attitude of friendship, many times with personal expense. Godly friendship includes a degree of sacrifice and servitude, as does our daily walk with God. But with a mindset to serve and to love at all times, it is amazing how God will give the increase! If we are willing to suffer one with another and bear one another’s burdens, together we can connect and relate with others to share the Gospel in a powerful and impressive way. We can “arise, go and doubt not” as we share our testimony of faith, friendship, and forgiveness with a world in need