Saturday, March 20, 2010

WHAT IS A FRIEND?

A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity. A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 17:17; 18:24).


A pretender will make an occasional show of love, especially when he can benefit from the exhibit. The love of a true friend, however, is constant. The true friend (the “brother” of verse 17) is always a helper in the time of adversity. This kind of friend is “a friend indeed” to those in need.


How can a man expect to have friends unless he himself strives to be a friend to others? What does it means to be a friend? True friendship comes from deeds designed to help others in their time of need and not simply the association of a social club or public organization. The friendship that springs forth from appreciation in response to another kindness and benevolence is more likely to be a deep seated and lasting relationship than that of mere association. There are those who are so thoughtful, helpful, and kind that the relationship shared with them is a closer relationship than that of one’s physical family. Such a friend is one who is always ready to lend a listening, sympathizing ear (Proverbs 27:10) as opposed to family members who are not thus disposed (James 2:15, 16).


Please note the following from an ‘Author Unknown.


There are friends with a little “f” and Friends with a big ‘F.” The first is a large group with sloppy admission standards, the other an elite, time-tested crew.


What’s the difference?


  • Little “f” friends identify themselves when they call. Big “F” Friends do not have to.
  • A little “f” friend opens a conversation with a full news bulletin on his life. A big “F” Friend says, “What’s new with you?”
  • A little “f” friend thinks the problems you whine about are recent. A big “F” Friend says “You’ve been whining about the same thing for 10 years. Get off your ‘good intentions’ and do something about it.”
  • A little “f” friend has never seen you cry. A big “F” Friend has soggy shoulders from your tears.
  • A little “f” friend knows almost nothing about your family. A big “F” Friend knows the medical history, dietary habits, and marital troubles of everyone on your tree.
  • A little “f” friend calls you at 10 P.M. just to chat. A big “F” Friend knows you do not like to be called after 9 P.M.
  • A little “f” friend, when visiting, acts like a guest. A big “F” Friend, when visiting, will open your refrigerator, put their feet on the sofa, talk back to your spouse, and reprimand your children.
  • A little “f” friend thinks the friendship is over when you argue. A big “F” Friend knows that a friendship is not a friendship until you’ve had a argument.


Be a Friend…Have a Friend.

- Jimmie

1 comment:

Kristen said...

I really enjoyed this!