Reflections on Proverbs: Growing in the Art of Skillful Living (Part 7): The Wisdom of Cultivating Godly Friendships

10/5/2025: Rev. Paul Bang   Proverbs 13:20 Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise,     but the companion of fools will suffer harm.   Proverbs 17:17     17 A friend loves at all times,     and a brother is born for adversity.   Proverbs 18:24     24 A man of many companions may come to ruin,     but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 19:4   4 Wealth brings many new friends,     but a poor man is deserted by his friend. Proverbs 22:24-25     24 Make no friendship with a man given to anger,     nor go with a wrathful man, 25 lest you learn his ways     and entangle yourself in a snare. Proverbs 27:6       6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend;     profuse are the kisses of an enemy.   Proverbs 27:9       9 Oil and perfume make the heart glad,     and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.[a]       Proverbs 27:17     17 Iron sharpens iron,     and one man sharpens another.[