FRIENDSHIP DEFINED BY GOD
"A friend loves
at all times, and a brother is born for adversity" Prov. 17:17
This is the one full and final definition of FRIENDSHIP.
Personally, I have not the slightest doubt that the marginal reading here
should be adopted: “A friend loves at all times, and is born as a brother for
adversity." There is no attempt here to define a brother. The
statement, "a
brother is born for adversity," would be inadequate and indeed
inaccurate, as a definition of a brother; but the statement that "a friend . . .
is born as a brother for adversity" is a graphic illustration
and application of the inclusive truth: "A friend loves at all times." This
statement is easily read, and is accepted theoretically, quite generally. Let
it be applied. Then two startling questions will arise, first, a question as to
whether I am really a friend to anyone; and second, a question as to how many
real friends I have. As to the second, yes, I have a few. Their love never
falters, never wavers, in spite of my meanness, my stupidity, my sin. For them,
with tears and laughter, I thank God. As to the first, I can only say, God help
me to be a friend in that full way to those about me. All consideration of this
great definition leads us at last to one place, to One Person. He is the Friend
of sinners. There comment ceases. Let the heart WONDER and WORSHIP.
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