What does Proverbs 18:24 say about relationships?

Proverbs 18:24, in the New International Version (NIV), reads: "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." This verse provides profound insight into the nature and importance of relationships from a biblical perspective. It highlights the value of true friendship and the potential pitfalls of surrounding oneself with unreliable companions.

The first part of the verse, "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin," warns of the dangers associated with having friends who are not dependable. In the Hebrew text, the word often translated as "unreliable" can also mean "many" or "numerous." This suggests that having a large number of superficial acquaintances can lead to disaster, as these relationships lack depth and reliability. The idea here is not to discourage having many friends, but rather to emphasize the importance of the quality of those friendships. Superficial relationships can lead to ruin because they may not provide the support, wisdom, and encouragement one needs during challenging times.

In contrast, the second part of the verse, "but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother," speaks to the value of a true, loyal friend. This friend is characterized by their steadfastness and loyalty, often surpassing even familial bonds. In ancient Hebrew culture, family ties were incredibly strong and significant, so to say that a friend can be closer than a brother is to place an immense value on that friendship. This friend is someone who remains faithful and supportive, providing a sense of security and companionship that is invaluable.

The wisdom in this proverb is timeless and universally applicable. It underscores the importance of cultivating deep, meaningful relationships rather than focusing on the quantity of one's social connections. In a world where social media and networking often prioritize the number of friends or followers, Proverbs 18:24 serves as a reminder that true friendship is measured by loyalty and reliability, not by numbers.

From a Christian perspective, this verse also points to the ultimate friend we have in Jesus Christ. In John 15:13-15, Jesus says, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." Jesus exemplifies the perfect friend who sticks closer than a brother, offering His life for our salvation and inviting us into a deep, personal relationship with Him.

Moreover, the book of Proverbs frequently addresses the theme of friendship and relationships. Proverbs 17:17 states, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity." This verse complements Proverbs 18:24 by emphasizing the constancy of true friendship. A genuine friend is not just present during good times but remains steadfast through adversity, providing support and love when it is most needed.

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, including Proverbs, often uses parallelism to convey its messages. In Proverbs 18:24, the contrast between unreliable friends and a loyal friend is a form of antithetical parallelism, where the second line contrasts with the first to highlight the difference between superficial and true friendships. This literary technique enhances the impact of the message, making it clear that while unreliable friends can lead to ruin, a loyal friend is a precious and invaluable gift.

In practical terms, this proverb encourages us to evaluate our relationships and invest in those that are genuine and supportive. It calls us to be discerning in our choice of friends, seeking out those who demonstrate loyalty, integrity, and love. Additionally, it challenges us to be that kind of friend to others, offering steadfast support and encouragement to those we care about.

Christian literature and teachings often echo the sentiments of Proverbs 18:24. For instance, C.S. Lewis, in his book "The Four Loves," discusses the different types of love, including friendship (philia). He emphasizes that true friendship is a rare and precious gift, one that is chosen freely and characterized by mutual respect and affection. Lewis's reflections align with the wisdom of Proverbs, highlighting the value of deep, meaningful relationships.

In conclusion, Proverbs 18:24 offers profound wisdom on the nature of relationships. It warns against the dangers of unreliable friends and extols the virtues of a loyal friend who sticks closer than a brother. This verse encourages us to seek out and cultivate genuine, supportive friendships while also challenging us to be that kind of friend to others. Ultimately, it points to the perfect friendship we have in Jesus Christ, who exemplifies the true friend who never leaves nor forsakes us.

By embracing the wisdom of this proverb, we can build stronger, more meaningful relationships that provide support, encouragement, and love throughout the various seasons of life.