(23) A Friend Who Sticks Closer than a Brother

Immanuel Fellowship Church

Scripture says, "there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" (Prov. 18:24). Such a friend will do at least two things for you. First, he will defend you against enemies. His faithful love is a godsend in adversity (Prov. 17:17). Second, he will help you become your best self. A true friend wants you to flourish, materially and spiritually.Ezekiel 35–36 reveal God as a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Israel had neglected the Lord. The people had defiled the land "by their ways and their deeds" (Ezek. 36:17). They had shed blood and worshiped idols (36:18). But God would remain a faithful friend. He perfectly fulfills the first part of Proverbs 18:24, "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly" (KJV). God promised to judge Israel's enemies and ensure their physical and spiritual well-being. We too need to know the Lord as the one who defends, blesses, and transforms the ones he loves.