As years pass quickly by, I find myself appreciate more and more those who join me in life. Friendship combines the complexity and uniqueness of two into a unifying momentum.
“Two people are better off than one,
for they can help each other succeed.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9
Getting “two people” to work in harmony can be challenging. (I speak from experience!) However, when two people are desiring to help each other succeed, a synergy and unity blends and energizes.
A true friend loves and makes sacrifices for the sake of the other.
Quote for the today, “There is no harmony when everyone sings the same note.” I have an appreciation for music, rhythm, and harmony, especially when instruments or voices resound in perfect pitch and tempo. Friendship is like that!
The distinctiveness of each individual adds colour and variety. Differences in personalities, motivations, gifts, and even weaknesses bring strength and beauty to the combined sum.
Two Heads are Better Than One
Have you heard the proverb, “Two heads are better than one”? A scientific study did verify the point, but only if both participants were confident and competent in being able to communicate their ideas and views.
It is helpful to gain advice from someone who is willing and able to express themselves clearly. Otherwise, the study continues to state, two people can create a deficient!
“…true wisdom has two sides…”
Job 11:6
Friendship is one channel to speak wisdom and insight into my life; it gives opportunity for me to also reciprocate.
A true friend defends and builds godly character.
Finding Truth
“But if you are unsuccessful,
take one or two others with you and go back again,
so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses.”
Matthew 18:16
In the bible, two is the smallest number to verify truth. A charge could not be laid against anyone without at least two witnesses. Truth was established on the testimony of two or more.
It is often helpful to bounce ideas off of or share vision with someone you trust. Friends can help us set realistic goals. Godly friendships help to ground us. They also provide an atmosphere to soar.
I can’t tell you how many times a friend has spoken a word of encouragement that gave me the energy to keep going. Equally, there have been times when a friend’s perspective has enabled me to see things I was missing, internally and externally.
A true friend delights in truth.
Commitment of Friendship
I am blessed with relationships that have endured decades
through varying levels of maturity
separation of countries or even continents
sharing joys and accomplishments
amid tragedies and pain
always strengthening
never ending…
When God is included in our friendships, there is a supernatural element of connectivity and strength.
“A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Proverbs 17:17
A true friend is always loyal.
God is Present
Having a friend who will pray with and for you is invaluable.
“For where two or three gather together as my followers,
I am there among them.”
Matthew 18:20
Two people who love and follow Jesus create an atmosphere that invites the Holy One, the I AM, to influence and occupy the relationship. Two plus God defines indescribable unity and potential.
The prayer support of those around me is of great value. My deepest friends are those I share faith with. We rejoice together in victories, weep together in difficulties, contend together in weakness, and stand together in injustice.
True friends share faith perspective.
Equals
Just as the influence of others can be positive, it can also have negative impact.
“Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers.
How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness?
How can light live with darkness?”
2 Corinthians 6:14
I’ve also experienced many friendships where moral standards have been vastly different. However, one’s points of closest connectivity are of the greatest benefit when we share common faith and eternal perspective.
Those in my most intimate group of confidants and supports are those equal in vision and focus.
“Can two people walk together without agreeing
on the direction?”
Amos 3:3
A true friend walks with you.
Friendship
An African proverb says,
“If you want to fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.”
Jesus illustrated the dynamics well of friendship. Though multitudes followed him, and many were called disciples of Jesus, He hand-picked twelve to spend concentrated time with. Out of those twelve there were three that were especially close to Him — the insider.
Let’s stick together for the long haul!
__________
More on Relationships:
3 Relationships We All Need and The Reasons Why
My Call to Action – Living and Communing Authentic Relationships