Recently I've been pondering the wisdom the Bible shares about the importance of good friends, friendships that last, and friendships that point you closer to the Lord. I guess in this the first subject that needs to be approached is what some consider friendships and what some may consider enemies.
Enemies. Enemies are not supposed to exist in our lives. The Lord intended for the world to be perfect, for everyone to love each other, and for everyone to sit in a holy peace with one another. Unfortunately sin entered the world, making for confusion, fights, and hardships between people, causing what some may consider enemies. Due to this harsh reality the Bible acknowledges that we may encounter this in life. For example, in Psalms 38:19 it says, "Many have become my enemies without cause; those who hate me without reason are numerous." This verse implies that even without a clear reason, you might find yourself facing adversaries. It's pretty clear that the existence of enemies is a part of life, but the Bible encourages us to deal with them with compassion and kindness. The bible clearly states that some enemies will be seen for no specific reason, but unfortunately they will exist.
The Bible talks about dealing with enemies too. Like in Matthew 5:44, it says, "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." And then in Romans 12:20, it says, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink." It's suggesting that doing good to those who aren't so nice to you could change things for the better. It's pretty deep because it flips the script on how people usually think about enemies. Instead of revenge, it's all about love and kindness. The Lord calls us to this, to building and showing a kindness far beyond what the world can offer. God is kindness, He is peace, He is happiness, and in all of this He challenges us to share these gifts that He has given us with others.
Enemies will come and a certain tension will be felt due to human nature to consider someone an “enemy.” However, even though this is human nature God still challenges us to stay away from this evil. In Romans 12:18 it says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” This verse shows the importance of avoiding enmity and seeking peace at all times possible. In all honesty it does not explicitly here say to not have enemies but there is an underlying message to offer forgiveness, love, and understanding rather than gaining an enemy and holding a grudge. Realistically you are not going to be close and deep friends with each person you encounter, but treating everyone out of love and respect is what the Lord calls us to do.
Once understanding what the Lord says about enemies and avoiding this sin, it is important to understand good and healthy friendships. The Lord has blessed me with friends my entire life, I have always had people I truly have a good time with. More recently I have seen the significance of having deep and lasting friendships, friendships that will point me towards the place that I want to be at. This started this past summer when I went to Surf Hatteras as a surf instructor. Here I met many people who I desire to be like, who lead me to the Lord. One of which is my best friend, he showed me the importance of a deep and personal friendship that we can share through the Lord. Once witnessing and feeling this I quickly desired for friendships to be meaningful like this. The Lord blessed me once again, reconnecting me with old friends and showing me new ones, all of which I know He placed in my life at the perfect time. I know this because the Lord has shown Himself through all of these friendships and has shown the power He offers in them.
It's fascinating how timeless the teachings on friendships are in the bible. Proverbs 17:17 says, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity." It's a powerful reminder that true friends aren't just there for the fun times but also for the tough ones, they're like a family you choose for yourself. Then there's the advice in Proverbs 27:6, "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses." It's a bit of a reality check that a real friend will tell you the hard truths you need to hear to grow, rather than just encourage you when they know you're being led astray. These ancient words highlight the value of having friends who are genuine, supportive, and wise.
In Proverbs 13:20, it says, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." Find those people who are walking the path you want to walk. Look to the people around you, if you want to be like them then stay right where you're at. If you want to be different from those around you, find the group for you. And then there's Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, which says, "Two are better than one... If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." Walking with the Lord can sometimes be hard when going through trials on earth. Temptation and seclusion may feel very strong at times, find those that you can fall back on and know will be with you in the thick and the thin.
The last verse I will point out is Proverbs 18:24 as it says, "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." The Lord is showing that HE is also your friend. Everytime I hear this it hits me, this means much more than we may think. The God who made everything and everyone wants a friendship with me and you…sinners on the earth that He created! This is crazy and we are not worthy, but the Lord allowed this for us. The greatest friend you can have is Jesus. Lean on Him, trust in Him, and He will never lead you astray. Humans mess up, but He never does.
This song below is one that I listen to often. It talks about the Lord being “closer than a brother.” I encourage you to listen to it and really look for what it is saying.
Please know my phone is an open line, I would love to talk more about this with anyone and I would love to be there for anyone who needs it. Look for the people the Lord has for you, they’re there and the Lord will make these people clear. Thank you for reading and as always please reach out with any questions or comments!
You are a great friend to have Cole!