One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. … A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. … Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. … Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. … That is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.

Anyone who withholds kindness from a friend forsakes the fear of the Almighty.

Pr 18:24; Ec 4:9-12; Pr 27:17, Pr 17:17, Jh 15:13; Pr 27:6, Pr 27:9; He 10:24-25, Ro 1:12; Jo 6:14

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.