INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Some people seem unable to function without daily interaction with friends. Yet, others think such attachments overbearing and far too demanding. Unfortunately, the world frequently misconstrues what constitutes true friendship. Additionally, far too many times, friends abuse this important relationship. Social media sites even refer to one's mere acquaintances as “friends.” No wonder the world remains so confused concerning the essence of true biblical friendship. Regardless of one’s perspective on these matters, the Bible points out that there is One friend that man cannot do without and He is “a friend that sticketh closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
See All...). This could simply refer to people who have friends  more loyal than those in one's own family, but likely references the Lord. His level of commitment causes Him to be a friend to those deemed unlovable by the world. Simply consider what the Bible says about His sacrifice. Christ died on the cross for His enemies (Romans 5:10For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
See All...) so that they could become His friends (John 15:13-15 [13] Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. [14] Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. [15] Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
See All...). Truly, He is that “friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children) Name some of your closest friends. God loves you more than they do. Jesus died on the cross for us even though He knew we would be disobedient. Our friends would not and could not have done that for us.
• (For everyone) What comes to mind when you think of the Lord’s faithfulness as a friend to mankind? Can you name some of His traits as a friend that He exemplifies best?
• There is no other friend like the Lord Jesus. He stays by your side regardless of your faithfulness to Him. Have you thanked Him today for being such a friend to you? Have you rejoiced in the blessings of knowing Him personally?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

• Ask God to show you ways in which He has been a friend to you.
• Thank the Lord for being a faithful friend.

SONG

No, Not One!

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