Friendship is one of our deepest needs. Yet, so many have no idea about how to fulfill that longing. Fortunately, the Bible has much to say about the matter. Solomon wrote, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity” (Prov. 17:17). Later, he adds, “There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (18:24). Such friendship is a beautiful and treasured possession.
A friend is one who loves at all times, even when our weaknesses become evident. An old proverb says, “He who seeks a friend without a fault remains without one.” A friend does not easily give up but seeks to encourage and strengthen. “A friend loves at all times.” In fact, “A brother is born for adversity” (17:17). If you cannot lean on a friend, who can you lean on?
How does a friend get to be someone who sticks closer than a brother? The answer lies in the realm of adversity. A friend does not give up on us, even when we have given up on ourselves. A friend remains loyal when loyalty is not popular. A friend believes and expects the best of his friend and their friendship.
How do we go about developing friendships? There are no short-cuts. Relationships require time and energy. In our madly-paced world, many are starving for friendship. Many of our “so-called” friendships are shallow and unfulfilling. The one who would have friends must show himself to be friendly (Prov. 18:24, KJV). No one would argue that a person can seriously seek friendship without seeking to be a friend. In a practical sense, this means that we must develop those qualities which will make us a good friend to others. Loyalty, dependability, a sense of caring and an ability to overlook another’s weaknesses are a few of the essentials of friendship. It takes time to develop close friendships; but while we are waiting, we must seek to develop the qualities which will make a good friend.
— Glen Elliott —