What’s it going to be: companion or friend?
Proverbs 18: 24 A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Ever buy a matched set of something, say a sofa that has a companion piece, like a loveseat? Known anyone that had a traveling companion? How about the “Prairie Home Companion”? I had one of their cd’s but I’ve never introduced someone as my companion. What I have said is that someone is my friend. Based on the proverb above it looks like there’s a differentiation that can be made and it’s a pretty important one. So what’s the difference?
It could be as simple as: A companion is someone you know and a friend is someone who knows you. Now, before you scream “Semantics!” (Does anyone really ever scream that?) Probably not, so before you state firmly “Semantics” we all know what we’re talking about here. It’s a measure of depth that applies to the people we know and the God we’re supposed to have a relationship with. It’s a relationship that we choose and one we design. It’s not merely some association we’re a part of because we find ourselves in close proximity to that person. That’s why the friend may be closer than the brother. The thing is it’s up to us.
Just as the man with only companions comes to ruin, the man with a single friend who he KNOWS and who KNOWS him may be saved. So it is with our relationship to God. The Pharisees knew the law but did not know grace, a cornerstone of what Jesus taught us about God. If we go to church faithfully every Sunday and contribute to the collection, maybe even teach Sunday school or are in some other way involved in our church but do not KNOW God, what will be our fate? My suggestion would be to plow a furrow, go deep and over time, of your own volition, develop that relationship with God.
If you were going to grow your relationship with God what would it take? If you’re not sure, maybe the two of you need to talk. You know, like friends do. What do you need to say?
I hope you liked this and it made you think about making a friend. If you have a current friend that might benefit from reading it, please share it using the icons below.
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