“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NRSVCE)
Saint John Chrysostom, known for his eloquence, compares a true friend to the very light of the sun, suggesting that such a friend is even more essential to our lives than the sun’s radiance. Think of a moment when you’ve found yourself in darkness — not necessarily the absence of physical light, but a spiritual or emotional darkness where loneliness, confusion, or fear crept in. In such times, the warmth and light of a true friend can bring comfort that even the sun cannot match.
Friendship, as God intends it, is a sacred gift. The Bible is filled with stories of deep, abiding friendships: David and Jonathan, Ruth and Naomi, Mary and Elizabeth. These relationships mirror God’s love for us, a love that is faithful, patient, kind, and enduring. We are created for community, for companionship, and for a love that uplifts, supports, and draws us closer to Him.
Yet, true friendship is more than shared interests or mutual benefit; it is rooted in the love of Christ. A genuine friend is one who walks alongside us, not just in the light of easy days but also in the shadows of our darkest nights. Such friends are willing to sacrifice their time, offer encouragement, pray fervently, and speak truth in love, even when it’s uncomfortable.
St. John Chrysostom reminds us that it would be better to live in darkness than to be without friends. His words invite us to reflect on our own friendships. Are we cultivating relationships that reflect the light of Christ? Are we being the kind of friend who shines God’s love into the lives of others? Are we open to receiving this same grace-filled love from those around us?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of friendship, a glimpse of Your divine love. Help me to cherish the friends You have placed in my life. Teach me to be a friend who reflects Your love and light, who walks with others in their times of joy and sorrow. May I always seek to build relationships that honor You and draw others closer to Your heart. Amen.
Action Step:
Today, reach out to a friend who has been a light in your life. Express your gratitude and say a prayer for them. Ask God to show you how you can be a source of encouragement and support to someone in need of a friend.
Closing Thought:
True friendship is a reflection of God’s own love. In a world where darkness can easily surround us, may we become beacons of His light, seeking and nurturing friendships that bring us closer to Him.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Holy Beautiful Life
Featured Image by Briana Tozour on Unsplash
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