Bible Reading: Proverbs 18:24

There are ‘friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

FRIENDSHIPS ARE as different as flowers. Some are beautiful yet delicate, needing special care. Others grow anywhere in practically any conditions, even in the blister­ing desert. And you find out quickly which ones wilt when the temperature starts to rise.

As great as some of your other friendships are, you have only one totally unique friendship that stands apart from all others. It’s your friendship with Jesus Christ. He is an all-weather, all-circumstance friend.

First, Jesus is a full-time friend. He will always be there for you. He doesn’t treat you one way when you’re alone and another way when others are around. You can count on him to be consistent, loving, warm, and open at all times.

Second, he is the one unconditional friend who will always forgive you when you fail him. He will stick with you through whatever circumstances occur in your life. When the going gets tough, Jesus will be by your side. David, the writer of the Twenty-third Psalm, said, “Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me” (verse 4).

Third, Jesus is a fully dependable friend. You don’t need to fear him making fun of you, turning his back on you, or betraying your confidence. And he keeps his word. You can count on his promises.

Fourth, Jesus, the ultimate friend, is never superficial or trite. He wants a signifi­cant relationship with you. He treats you with compassion and tenderness when you open your heart to him. You can hardly count the examples in the Bible of his com­passion toward people who were physically disabled, socially outcast, or suffering emotional grief. And he cares for you in that same intense, personal way.

Jesus was no stiff, formal person. Common people didn’t cringe in his presence. You don’t have to put on a super-spiritual act to attract his attention. Just be your­self with him, and he will be himself with you.

You have one great, faithful, unconditional friend in Jesus. Take him at his word. Cultivate your friendship with him every day. Learn to take your disappoint­ments’ loneliness, and hurts to him-along with your excitement, happiness, and joy-and experience the friendship that lasts for eternity.

REFLECT: Have you made Jesus your best friend? How do you see that in your daily life?

PRAY: Jesus, make my friendship with you my best, most important friendship of all.

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