Proverbs 17:17; 27:6, 9, 17; 18:24 (NLT)

Why has God given us friends?

1. To you in trouble.

Proverbs 17:17; 18:24 (NLT) 17 A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need. 24 There are ‘friends’ who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.

2. To you in character.

Proverbs 27:6,9 (NLT) Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. 9 The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. Proverbs 27:17 (NLT) As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.

3. To you in love.

John 15:13 (NLT) There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

• John 15:12–15 (NLT) I no longer call you slaves… Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me.

WHAT NOW?

• Reflect. Repent. Recommit.