Devotional - A friend you can always trust

Who is your best friend? "A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity" (Prv. 17:17).

These are words of wisdom from a good Christian pastor, which might help you reflect more on the matter.

If you could find the perfect friend, what would be your blueprint? You would probably choose someone who loves you just as you are, someone who overlooks every negative act and still loves you without condition. You'd pick someone who accepts you without regarding qualifications or stature.

No doubt, your friend would understand you fully and know why you're hurt, discouraged, or tempted, and he would understand even when you err. He doesn't agree with it, but he understands because he's been there.

Your ideal friend would be someone to whom you could tell your innermost desires and secrets without fear of rejection or criticism. The person would be committed to you, no matter the circumstance, and would be completely with you.

Your new friend would be selfless, showing you love every day and encouraging you to love others. He would offer inspiration and comfort simply be listening before answering. If you haven't met such a friend, it's time for an introduction.

This is Jesus Christ. He is your perfect friend.

—Charles Stanley, Seeking His Face

My best friend is Jesus Christ. Sometimes, experience tells us we cannot always trust even our closest friends. "Do not trust in a friend; Do not put your confidence in a companion; Guard the doors of your mouth From her who lies in your bosom" (Micah 7:5). But I can always trust in Jesus Christ. He will never betray me, nor forsake me, nor seek my hurt or shame.

"Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends" (John 15:13). He laid down his life for His flock. Our Lord tells us, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep" (John 10:11). Our friend Jesus "sympathize[s] with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin" (Heb. 4:15). Christ is my advocate, my brother, my helper, my redeemer, and my best friend.

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