Proverbs 18:24 A man that has friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother. The word rendered "friend" is from a root which means "to delight in." The word might be rendered "lover." In the former clause of the verse read "companions," in the latter clause "friend." Then read the verse thus — "A man of companions breaks himself up, but there is a Friend more attached than a brother." I. THE SAFEGUARD OF COMPANIONSHIP. 1. Indiscriminate companionships may meet with ingratitude. 2. They may involve injustice. 3. They may produce infidelity. II. THE SATISFACTIONS OF FRIENDSHIP. 1. Friendship's inspiration is to a higher purpose than companionship's. 2. Its impulse is to a more unselfish relationship. 3. Its industry is seen in assuring a more enduring attachment. (C. M. Jones.) Parallel Verses KJV: A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.WEB: A man of many companions may be ruined, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. |
    |