Friendship is something sacred and to be honored. It is special and true friendship rare. The proverbs recognize that in this chapter.
“The wounds of a friend are trustworthy, but the kisses of an enemy are excessive” (v. 6).
It’s hard to say honest words to friends, but better to hear them from friends who love you. Much better than flattery and words you would much rather hear but are from an enemy.
“Oil and incense bring joy to the heart, and the sweetness of a friend is better than self-counsel” (v. 9)
Friendship is one of the best things in life. Sometimes we appreciate it most after seasons where our circumstances make friendship difficult.
“Don’t abandon your friend or your father’s friend” (v. 10).
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A Proverb for social media users:
“better a neighbor nearby than a brother far away” (v. 10).
A Proverb for morning people:
“If one blesses his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning, it will be counted as a curse to him” (v. 14).
It is how a person receives praise that tests someone. Who does he become when he receives millions of followers, or lots of money, or really nice words?
“A crucible for silver, and a smelter for gold, and a man for the words of his praise” (v. 21).
What does this one mean?
23 Be sure you know the condition of your flocks,
give careful attention to your herds;
24 for riches do not endure forever,
and a crown is not secure for all generations.
25 When the hay is removed and new growth appears
and the grass from the hills is gathered in,
26 the lambs will provide you with clothing,
and the goats with the price of a field.
27 You will have plenty of goats’ milk to feed your family
and to nourish your female servants.
Know the condition of your life–your finances, your work, your family. Tend to these with care. Because the certain is uncertain. These things are the provision for your family and your future needs.
I write this having just trying to balance my checkbook. For years I didn’t have a budget. I didn’t bounce checks, but it never allowed me to save for emergencies. I look more closely at money today and reap the fruit. Not that I have money, but I know where I’m at and where change needs to happen. I set aside money in categories for certain things and that helps.