What is a real friend?

A true friend shows love at all times and is a brother who is born for times of distress.

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Proverbs 17:17

6 : The wounds inflicted by a friend are faithful, but an enemy’s kisses are plentiful.

9: Oil and incense make the heart rejoice; So does sweet friendship springing from sincere counsel.

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​Proverbs 27:6, 9

​The Bible contains examples of good friendships between people of different ages, backgrounds, cultures, and positions of authority.

What are some examples of good friendships in the Bible?

Ruth was Naomi’s daughter-in-law, and there may have been a significant difference in age between them. Furthermore, Ruth’s cultural background was different from Naomi’s. Despite these differences, they formed a very close, loving friendship.

Ruth and Naomi

​Although Jonathan was evidently 30 years older than David, the Bible says that David and Jonathan were “bound together in close friendship.”

David and Jonathan

Jesus had a position of authority over his apostles, being their teacher and master. But he did not view them as unworthy of his friendship. Rather, Jesus had a close bond with those who followed his teachings.

Jesus and his apostles