Inward Grace of Friendship

“We do not wish for friends to feed and clothe our bodies—neighbors are kind enough to do that—but to do the like office for our spirits.”
– Henry David Thoreau (Leaves of Gold, pg. 78)

Few greater gifts can we have in this life than the gift of a sincere friend. Such a person is more than just someone we like, with whom we can share space without quickly tiring of each other. This friendship encompasses more than shared interests and common lifestyles. Such a friend has the capacity to minister to the deepest levels of the heart and soul. It is the person about whom we would say, “she has truly changed my life.”

Consider what scripture says about friendship. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” In the toughest times in life, friends draw near. Ecclesiastes 4:10 says, “If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” A friend reaches out at your lowest point and helps you back onto your feet. Proverbs 27:6 says, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” A true friend can be honest enough to speak what is beneficial for you, knowing that your relationship is built on unshakable trust.

Thoreau offers an interesting word picture of being fed and clothed. These are two of the essential physical needs of every person. My own very dear friend often refers to 1 Timothy 6:7-8, where the apostle Paul says, “For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” Food and clothing: these needs outpace any of the conveniences offered by our modern society. Thoreau contends that our true longing is for friends who will meet that level of need in our spirits.

If you have experienced such a friend, you know what a priceless gift that person is. You don’t have to pretend around them, first because they are willing to love the “true you,” and second because they know you well enough that you can’t fool them anyway. Spending time with them is pure refreshment for the soul. Laughter and tears flow genuinely. You would defend them until your dying breath, and sacrifice anything necessary to preserve your connection to them. Such a friend truly is a conduit of God’s grace toward you.

Reading this, it may be that someone comes immediately to your mind. If so, why not extend to them a word of appreciation today. I expect it would warm their heart as much as they warm yours.

See you along the Winding Path.