A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for adversity.

Prov. 17:17 (NASB)

I have saved the best for last. 

There are few words that are more pleasant than the word “friend.” And one of the best definitions I know comes straight from the dictionary: A friend is a person whom one knows, likes and trusts. Each word in that short description is fraught with meaning and worth thinking about. (American Heritage Dictionary, vol. 4)

Know: to have a practical understanding that comes from experience. The little song I learned in Girl Scouts many years ago, still rings true, “Make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver, the other gold.” True friendship stands the test of time because we find that our friend is exactly who they say they are. 

Likes: to find pleasant or attractive. “A friend is a present you give yourself.” (R.L. Stevenson). Time spent with a friend is an oasis, whether it is a quick call or a date for coffee. What we find enjoyable in another is subjective, but absolutely necessary for a lasting friendship. Otherwise, you will find yourself letting their calls go to voicemail.

Trust: Scripture is full of verses on “friends” that have proven false, so apparently it is not a new problem. To not be able to trust another is, of necessity, to have keep a part of yourself walled off. That is work. To trust another person completely is no small matter; that is why time is the truest measurement. 

The best part about friends is they can come from anywhere; and if you are fortunate, they will. Neighbors can be friends, spouses can be friends, relatives can be friends, your grown children can be friends, on and on. (Not so sure about bosses.)

Friendship is a gift from God. Like all good things, friends were His idea. That is why our friendships should be conducted before Him and in a way that honors Him.        

Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of Lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow  (James 1:17).

Dear Lord, 

Thank you for the gift of friends, no matter where we find them. In this imperfect world a true friend is a little taste of heaven.  Amen.

Nancy Shirah