There Is Strength and Safety in Friendship

“Two better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (Eccles. 4:9-12 ESV)

God designed us for relationship, not isolation

Life’s work is more rewarding, and its burdens are lighter, when shared with others. When one person stumbles, a friend is there to lift him up. When conditions grow cold or difficult, companionship brings warmth, protection, and endurance. Unity multiplies strength, while isolation leaves a person vulnerable.

Friendship becomes even stronger when it is centered on Christ

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matt.18:20 ESV)

When believers gather in His name, Jesus Himself is present among them. His presence transforms ordinary relationships into sources of encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth.

True friends do more than comfort — they refine one another

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Prov. 27:17 ESV)

Just as iron sharpens iron, godly friendships help shape our character, deepen our faith, and strengthen our walk with God.

Jesus calls us friends

Most remarkably, Jesus does not keep His followers at a distance. He calls us friends. He shares His heart with us, reveals the Father’s will, and invites us into close relationship with Him.

“No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.” (John 15:15 ESV)

The greatest expression of friendship is sacrificial love

Jesus demonstrated that love fully by laying down His life for His friends — a love without equal and a model for how we are to love one another.

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13 ESV)

Therefore

Value the friendships God has given you. Walk in unity, invest in godly relationships, and be a friend who strengthens, sharpens, and stands firm in times of need. Above all, remember that Jesus Himself is your closest and greatest Friend.

“A friend loves at all times,” (Prov. 17:17a ESV)