Introduction

Good morning, church family. We are going to unpack a powerful passage from Proverbs today, Proverbs 17:26 that says, "Also, to punish the righteous is not good, nor to strike the noble for their uprightness." This verse, though seemingly simple, will guide us as we delve into our topic today, which is all about friendship, specifically, the value of a true friend, the characteristics of a true friend, and the benefits of having a true friend. We all know that friendships are an important part of life. They can bring so much joy, comfort, and richness to our lives. But it's not just about having friends, it's about having true friends.

The Value

The value of a true friend is immeasurable, and this is something that is echoed throughout the scriptures, particularly in Proverbs 17:26. The verse suggests that punishing the righteous or striking the noble for their uprightness is not good. This can be seen as a metaphor for the value of true friendship. A true friend, like the righteous or the noble, is upright and good. To lose such a friend, or to treat them poorly, is not only detrimental to our own wellbeing, but it is also not in line with God's will.

Rare and precious: They are the ones who stand by us in our darkest hours, offering comfort, support, and a listening ear. They are the ones who celebrate with us in our happiest moments, sharing in our joy and success. They are the ones who challenge us to be better, to grow, and to strive towards becoming the best version of ourselves. They are the ones who hold us accountable, who tell us the truth even when it's hard, and who guide us back onto the right path when we stray.

Bible examples: We see numerous examples of true friendship. David and Jonathan's friendship is one of the most well-known examples. Despite the fact that Jonathan's father, King Saul, wanted to kill David, Jonathan remained a loyal friend to David. He warned David of his father's plans, saving his life. This is a testament to the value of a true friend. Jonathan valued his friendship with David more than his own safety or his loyalty to his father.

Not just about companionship and camaraderie: It's about mutual respect, trust, and love. It's about being there for each other, no matter what. It's about being willing to sacrifice for each other, just as Jonathan was willing to sacrifice for David. It's about being willing to speak the truth in love, even when it's hard. It's about being willing to forgive and to seek forgiveness.

Their ability to bring us closer to God: A true friend encourages us in our faith, prays for us, and points us to God in times of trouble. They remind us of God's love and faithfulness, and they help us to see God's hand at work in our lives. They challenge us to live out our faith in practical ways, and they inspire us to grow in our relationship with God.

A gift from God: They are a reflection of His love for us, and they are a means through which He blesses us. They are a source of joy, comfort, and strength. They are a source of wisdom and guidance. They are a source of encouragement and inspiration. They are a source of accountability and challenge. They are a source of love and acceptance.

The value cannot be overstated: They are more than just a companion or a confidant. They are a blessing, a gift, a treasure. They are a reflection of God's love and grace. They are a source of strength and comfort. They are a beacon of light in a dark world. They are a testament to the power of love and friendship.

The Characteristics

The verse suggests that a true friend is righteous and noble in their uprightness ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO