Proverbs 19:6–7: Many entreat the favor of the nobility, and every man is a friend to one who gives gifts. All the brothers of the poor hate him; How much more do his friends go far from him! He may pursue them with words, yet they abandon him.
Insight
Everyone loves, or professes to love, those from whom they expect something that will benefit them. If a person who is now fawned on for his gifts were by providence brought to poverty, the same friends would hate or neglect him. “Which of them,” asks Bishop Hall, “would dare acknowledge him when he is going to prison?” We need to reflect on the gifts he gives to his people. Should not those who are enriched by them show his rule of mercy to their poor brethren. “Lord, in my greatest plenty help me to mind and feel others’ poverty; and in my most prosperous condition keep me from forgetting the afflictions of your Joseph” (Swinnock). 1
Application
Notice the expressing of true love in Matthew 2:11: “And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”
Are your friendships based on what you can get or what you can give? What gift has God given to you, so you can bestow a blessing to others? Are you looking for opportunities to serve others or are you waiting for others to serve you?
Motivation
Loved one and friend You have put far from me. Psalm 88:18
Loving others with no conditions is the best foundation for a friendship. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, teach me more about becoming a friend to God.
1. Bridges, C. (2001). Proverbs. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
