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Understanding Friends

5 

Though good advice lies deep within the heart,
     a person with understanding will draw it out.

6 

Many will say they are loyal friends,
     but who can find one who is truly reliable?

Verse 5

Sometimes it is difficult to help a friend. Often a friend does not want to talk. He does not want to explain his problems. A wise person will speak gently to his friend. The wise person will encourage his friend to explain the problem.

The wise man must be slow and patient. He acts like a man who takes water from a deep well. After a long time, he will succeed. Then the wise man will understand his friend’s problem. So the wise man can help his friend.

Basically, God's wisdom is present in everyone's heart, but only a wise person can truly access and understand it.

Verse 6

People often say that they are loyal to their friends. Troubles will test whether their words were true. Anyone can say such words. But when problems come, many people do not try to help their friends.

In verses 6 and 9, Solomon tries to find an honest man. Many people seem honest. They say the right words. But when Solomon inquires further, these people disappoint Solomon. Everybody does wrong things. See Psalm 53:3, Isaiah 53:6, and Romans 3:23.

Jesus was always honest and he always spoke the truth. John lived with Jesus for 3 years (1 John 1:1-3). John tells us that Jesus did nothing evil (1 John 3:5). This is why Jesus could take the punishment for our evil actions. Jesus did this when he died for us (1 Peter 3:18). This is how God forgives our evil actions. 

If you haven’t figured it out yet, verse 6 speaks about the challenges of marriage. Before getting married, everyone promises unwavering love, but it's hard to know who will actually stay faithful over the years. It's sad to think about friends who seemed perfect for each other when they got married, only to separate and divorce not long after their wedding.

Consider this: If you're seeking a counselor or therapist, Verse 5 advises that you should look beyond their academic qualifications. The therapist should turn to Scripture for a deeper, Godly understanding.

Struggle to Standing. Available on Amazon.  https://a.co/d/ev3YUqw

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