Books Jesus Read

176

Books Jesus Read

Every friend says, “I too am a friend”; but some friends are friends only in name. 2 Is it not a sorrow like that for death itself when a dear friend turns into an enemy? 3 O inclination to evil, why were you formed to cover the land with deceit? 4 Some companions rejoice in the happiness of a friend, but in time of trouble they are against him. 5 Some companions help a friend for their stomachs’ sake, yet in battle they will carry his shield. 6 Do not forget a friend during the battle, and do not be unmindful of him when you distribute your spoils (37:1–6). Sirach – Eighteen Verses on Friendship (NRSV) And do not become an enemy instead of a friend; for a bad name incurs shame and reproach; so it is with the double-tongued sinner (6:1). Do not devise a lie against your brother, or do the same to a friend (7:12). Do not exchange a friend for money, or a real brother for the gold of Ophir (7:18). A friend is not known in prosperity, nor is an enemy hidden in adversity (12:8). One’s enemies are friendly when one prospers, but in adversity even one’s friend disappears (12:9). Do good to friends before you die, and reach out and give to them as much as you can (14:13).