Proverbs 18:23-24 – The Friend
Verse 23 – A poor man knows what it means to depend on someone else. This can be a blessing, for as Christians we all have to depend on Christ. When we are used to depending on others, it might be easier to cast pride away and rely on Christ alone. And while the wealthy are often too self-absorbed to care for those below them, we can be confident that God hears the prayers of His children. Those who come to Him in Jesus’ name will not be answered harshly.
Verse 24 – Another more common translation of the first part of this verse is: “A man that hath friends must show himself friendly”. We can all see the wisdom in this. If you want friends, you must be a friend – love your neighbour as you love yourself. But who is the friend who sticks closer than a brother? Our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the greatest, best, most loving, and most faithful of friends. He loves at all times. He is a friend to those who have no other friends; to those who have been His bitterest enemies; a friend who stays, when all others have gone away. He understands all that happens to us, He provides an escape in temptation, He comforts us in sickness, He sustains us in death, and He receives us into Heaven. No matter how many mistakes we make, when we belong to Him, we can’t lose His friendship. How can we respond to this love? By putting the highest value on His friendship. Live a life of joyful confidence in His all-sufficiency and love. Talk about Him. Avoid what He dislikes. Go to worship where He meets with His people. Long to be with Him forever. Love Him as your best and dearest friend.
Questions
- How does God respond to the prayers of His children?
- How can we show friendship to others?
- Who is the ‘friend that stick closer than a brother’?
- How can we respond to Christ’s friendship?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.