Beyond Convenience: The Sacrificial Nature of True Friendship
Loving as Oneself: The Biblical Model of Friendship
What does it mean to be a friend? That is a question that I have pondered recently. Jesus obviously is a friend like no other, but when I think of human friendships, the one that comes to mind is David and Jonathan. What a friendship. Their friendship is a picture we can follow of what it means to be a true friend to someone.
David hears that Jonathan has been killed in battle. The following verse is his response. It expresses the deep covenant of love and friendship that the two men had for each other.
I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: Very pleasant hast thou been unto me: Thy love to me was wonderful, Passing the love of women. 2 Samuel 1:26.
Friendship Principles
Friends stand by their friends during job losses, divorces, and other crises beyond the point of inconvenience. They are there consistently, even when it requires a sacrifice of time or comfort.
Friends celebrate their friends' successes, even if it comes at their own expense. They feel pure joy in a friend's success without envy.
Friends make and keep covenants or promises to each other. Their relationship rests on deep trust and respect. David and Jonathan covenanted together before God. They made and kept promises and felt mutual respect.
Friends sacrifice for each other. They show selflessness. Jonathan gave David his robe, armor, sword, bow, belt, and all the symbols of his position and power. He supported David's claim to the throne.
Friends invest quality time in meaningful conversations. They are there in times of celebration and challenges. Their commitment is evident in their actions, not just their words.
Friends are loyal, even at significant personal risk. Jonathan stood with David, angering his own father and the king. Friends stand by friends even when it costs and is uncomfortable.
Friends are friends behind each other's backs. They speak up and defend in the friend's absence.
Friends communicate even in dangerous times.
Friends will show emotion, express care, and be vulnerable.
Friends create traditions and remember each other's family.
Friendship is important. Let's all strive to be true friends.