Be a friend to have a friend
Solomon wrote, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity” (Proverbs 17:17). I used to think that this meant that friends were good and brothers were made to fight with. We had our fair share of sibling rivalry when I was a child, but I think this does not mean what I once thought it meant! A brother is one who is close and able to help you through adversity. Here a friend and brother are used in a parallel message. A friend and a brother love even when the chips are down.
True friends are difficult to come by at times, but they are worth their weight in gold when you find them! I had a friend who passed away several months ago. He used to tell me, “You might not believe me until you get older, but you will find that you can count the number of good close friends you have on one hand.” I found his words true. That does not mean we are unlovable, only that close friends are difficult to find.
There are many “fair-weather friends”—friends who are standing by your side when things are going well, but it is rare to find one who will stand with you in spite of the troubles you are facing. For example, when a person loses his money he finds his true friends (Proverbs 19:4). If you have found close friends, you should appreciate them and nurture that friendship. And remember that there is a Friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24).
That same passage tells us that if you are still looking for a friend, keep being a friend to others. Friendship is not some relationship you can just choose to have. It is something that grows over time and through experiences. Let others be friendly to you. Allow them to be there for you in hard times. Be there for them. Don’t press them; just be available.
Appreciate your friends. Good friends are a gift from God. Just remember that friendship is a two-way street. Will you be there for them?