God has given us the gift of friendship to help us flourish as individuals and as Christians. The Bible’s depiction of friendship can teach us valuable lessons about what it means to be a Christ-follower and a friend. Some things we can take away from these friendships in the Bible are listed below:
Abraham and Lot: Loyalty and Sacrifice
Abraham and Lot were relatives, and they ended up being best friends. From their native land, they set out together for the land God had promised Abraham. When their flocks became too large to graze together, Abraham graciously offered Lot the first dibs on a new settlement location. Lot established himself in the prosperous plain of Sodom, but he encountered difficulties when hostile kings attacked the city. Even though it cost him his life, Abraham did not think twice about saving his friend. To reclaim Lot and his belongings, he assembled a large force and relentlessly pursued the invaders.
Abraham’s example of loyalty and selflessness in his friendship with Lot is instructive. He didn’t punish Lot for picking the better land, and he didn’t run away from him when things got scary. He was so dedicated to his friend that he would do anything for him, no matter the cost. We can follow Abraham’s example by always being there for our friends, especially when they’re struggling.
Ruth and Naomi: Commitment and Kindness
Ruth and Naomi were more than just mother- and daughter-in-law; they were also remarkably close friends. Naomi returned to Judah after the deaths of her husband and two sons. Ruth and Orpah, her other daughter-in-law, were strongly encouraged to remain in Moab and look for new husbands. While Orpah was willing to leave Naomi, Ruth was not. She declared her undying devotion and stated, “I’ll go wherever you go and stay wherever you do. I pledge allegiance to you, your people, and your God. When I die, I want to be buried next to you.” Ruth moved to Judah with Naomi and helped support the couple. She ended up marrying Naomi’s cousin Boaz and eventually became the great-grandmother of King David.
The example of Ruth and Naomi’s friendship teaches us to be loyal and generous to those we count as friends. She stayed with Naomi and comforted her through her grief instead of abandoning her. She accepted her friend’s faith and heritage with open arms, showing respect and affection for both. She helped Naomi out in the fields and was kind enough to give her some of her food. To emulate Ruth is to be steadfast in friendship, even when it’s difficult for the person you care about.