“Love each other deeply as brothers, strive to show more honor to others!” (Romans, Chapter 12, Verse 8*)
How many true friends do you have? Do many names come to mind when you think of this question, or just a few? In reality, most of us do not have many loyal friends—those who remain faithful no matter what.
This reliable, cherished closeness is something the Lord desires for us, but it is a rarely found treasure. Let's look at the biblical story of David and Jonathan (1 Samuel, Chapters 18–20). Their story demonstrates that true friendships are built on mutual respect, love, and dedication. Today, let's focus on the first of these components.
True friendship begins with valuing all people, knowing that they are created lovingly in God’s image. After all, if Christ chose to die for them before anyone accepted Him as their Savior (Romans, Chapter 5, Verse 8), they surely have great worth. At the same time, the relationship between David and Jonathan goes beyond respect—it reveals a reverence for godly characteristics that Scripture encourages us to honor.
Consider the earlier question about those you regard as "true friends." Do they exhibit godly qualities that you respect? And do they, in turn, admire the righteousness they see in you? This mutual biblical respect is a necessary foundation for a lasting friendship.
Link to the original article: https://www.intouchuk.org/read/daily-devotions/lasting-friendships
* Scripture quotations are from the Bible, new translation from original languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013