January 25, Proverbs 18:24

In some places, people are more friendly and helpful as they depend on each other’s support. Neighbours can therefore become closer than blood relatives who live far away from us. In some countries, the people can appear very friendly. Some may even greet strangers with words like “Hi love” but do not really mean what they say. Friendly people will attract many friends. However, while we are friendly, we must also choose our friends carefully. We need to pray for true friends who will stick like a brother.

We have one true great friend in the Lord Jesus Christ. How do we know that? The Bible tells us he loves us and has given his life for us. He is faithful to share all our burdens, encourages us when we are downtrodden, and shelters us from harm. A genuine friend like Jesus will be faithful to the end, listening to our every problem and sticking with us through thick and thin.

For us to have true friends, we must first be sincere. Do you love your friends sincerely enough to tell them about Jesus if they are not Christians? Or do you sometimes deny knowing Jesus so that you can stay popular with some of them? Don’t be tempted to do that. Stay close to the Lord Jesus and He will give you true and faithful friends to study and play with.

Complete the words of this famous hymn:

Thought: One true friend is worth more than ten insincere ones.

Prayer: Thank you Heavenly Father, for the many friends you have given me. Help me to be a true friend myself. Please give me the wisdom to choose godly company, and also strive to be a good and godly friend to them too. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.