To find a friend one must close one eye; to keep him, two.
--NORMAN DOUGLAS (1868–1952)

A faithful friend is an image of God.

A faithful friend is one of life’s greatest assets.

The fingers of God touch your life when you touch a friend.
--MARY DAWN HUGHES

The most agreeable of all companions is a simple, frank person, without any high pretensions to an oppressive greatness—one who loves life and understands the use of it; obliging alike at all hours; above all, of a golden temper, and steadfast as an anchor. For such an one we gladly exchange the greatest genius, the most brilliant wit, the profoundest thinker.
--GOTTHOLD EPHRAIM LESSING (1729–1781)

THE DISAPPOINTMENT OF SO-CALLED FRIENDS
-An Ancient Hebrew poem by the famous poet, David.
Psalm 35:11-16 -Message Translation

Hostile accusers appear out of nowhere,
they stand up and badger me.
They pay me back misery for mercy,
leaving my soul empty.

When they were sick, I dressed in black;
instead of eating, I prayed.
My prayers were like lead in my gut,
like I'd lost my best friend, my brother.
I paced, distraught as a motherless child,
hunched and heavyhearted.

But when I was down
they threw a party!
All the nameless riffraff of the town came
chanting insults about me.
Like barbarians desecrating a shrine,
they destroyed my reputation.

THE MEANING OF TRUE FRIENDSHIP
(Modified from Holman's Bible Dictionary)

In the original language of the New Testament, the predominant word for friend is philos. A derivative, philia, is often used for friendship.

Jesus is described as the “friend of sinners” (Matt. 11:19).

He called His disciples “friends” (Luke 12:4; John 15:13-15).

The Bible highlights the connection between friends and joy (Luke 15:6, 9, 29), as well as warning of the possibility of friends proving false (Luke 21:16).

FRIENDSHIP WITH GOD
Echoing the Hebrew Scriptures, Bible writer James pointed to Abraham, the friend of God, as one whose example of active faith is to be followed (Jas. 2:23). James also warned against friendship with the world (Jas. 4:4).

To learn more about developing a personal friendship with God, check out the following resources:

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