Intentionality (Daily Encouragement)
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. – Proverbs 18:24
We are looking at the significance of friendship in our life. In ancient Israel, economic survival was precarious, and one needed the “insurance” of a true friend to get through the challenges of life (Waltke). Over and over Proverbs speaks to the need of friends to both navigate the complexity of the world and the companionship we all need. Our friendships have a tremendous impact on our lives and we must be intentional about pursuing and cultivating them:
In the early stage of your life, you were shaped most by your family. But for the rest of your life you will be shaped largely by your friends. You become like the people with whom you spend the most time. Friendship…must be carefully, intentionally cultivated through face-to-face time together. And in a busy culture like ours, it is one thing that is often squeezed out. (Tim Keller, God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life)
Who are friends that have shaped and influenced you? How are you intentionally cultivating friendships now that help you know and follow Jesus?