August 19

The Value Of Friendship

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up! — Eccl 4:9-10 BSB

We cannot have many close friends, but a life without an “other self” is a lonely one indeed. The friendship of David and Jonathan, or Damon and Pythias, has become part of the fabric of human history. For the Christian, it is especially beneficial to journey toward heaven with a companion, like Hopeful with Christian, or Mercy with Christiana.

A friend is invaluable when we stumble or fall on life’s path. “Woe to him who is alone when he falls.” The Apostle Paul urges us, “If someone is overtaken in a fault, you who are spiritual should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” Let us be watchful for one another’s souls. If anyone is drifting from the truth or falling into a trap, let us lift them up with care and love, just as Barnabas did for Paul.

True friendship should stir warmth in our spirits. “How can one be warm alone?” Spiritually speaking, there are divine sources of warmth, as the love of Christ kindles a deep and fervent fire. But having a like-minded friend beside us certainly helps maintain that heat. Perhaps this is why our Lord sent His disciples out in pairs (Mark 6:7).

Material wealth alone cannot satisfy without companionship. The ties of friendship, family, and religious fellowship bring joy to a poor person’s life that no miser, hoarding his riches, can ever experience. Fellowship with a kindred soul is not only vital for daily life but also for our spiritual journey.

In times of temptation, a true friend strengthens us to resist the devil. It’s a great help in moments of trial to have a friend who will echo the words of Jesus: “I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail.” And no friendship is greater than that of Jesus, our faithful Friend, who lifts us when we fall, warms our cold hearts, and shields us from the Tempter. Does He not make the third strand in the cord of friendship? “Where two or three are gathered together in My Name, there I am in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20).

Prayer

We pray for our companions on life’s journey. Help us to strengthen them with our courage, cheer them with our love, and share their burdens where we can. May we find in Jesus the Friend who sticks closer than a brother. Amen.