A Faithful Friend

It is always a blessing to be surrounded by godly friends. When we trusted Jesus as our Lord and Saviour by faith (Rom 5:1), the Holy Spirit now resides in our bodies (1 Cor 6:19). Who gives us new desires (2 Cor 5:17)! That includes making the right choices in having friends who are “likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind” (Php 2:2). Such friends would encourage us to live holy (2 Cor 7:1), and provide comfort in times of need (1 Thes 5:11). But we must also show ourselves friendly (Prov 18:24). Most people have no friends simply because they are not friendly! We can’t expect to win souls if we are not friendly (Prov 11:30).

Having godly friends allow us to encourage one another through God’s word (2 Tim 1:7), and in prayers (Jms 5:16), so we can stay focused on our spiritual goals. We would stand ready to help fellow brothers and sisters in Christ (1 Jn 4:20), who are going through some trials (Gal 6:2). It allows us to motivate one another “with brotherly love” (Rom 12:10); by showing grace and compassion (Jude 1:22)! Knowing these blessings, we are also warned not to be friends with an angry person (Prov 22:24), or with the ungodly crowd (Ps 1:1).

The “kisses of an enemy are deceitful,” they corrupt “good manners” (1 Cor 15:33). Most people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol were persuaded by the wrong crowd. They learn curse words not just from the bad movies and video games they watch, but mainly from the bad company that they chose to hang around with! Everyone wants a friend, especially in social media, and not be left out. However, do your friends love you “at all times” (Prov 17:17)? True friends would sometimes rebuke you if you are doing wrong (v. 5), because they love you. They would give you “hearty counsel” (v. 9), because they want you to be strong in the Lord (v. 17)! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera