“David fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came and said before Jonathan, What have I done? what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before thy father, that he seeketh my life?” (1 Samuel 20:1).

A true friend is a refuge. We all have troubles at some time. For many years, we may get along quietly and without sore trial; but the day will come to all of us when we shall be in sorrow or danger. It may be in such an experience as David’s, when people shall misjudge us or become our enemies without cause, and they may seek to harm us. It may be sickness that comes upon us, or bereavement, or severe loss of some kind. Whatever the trouble may be, a true friend will prove to be a great comfort to us in the experience.

It is a blessed thing to have one true friend that we are sure of, even though all others fail us. We can go to him then as David went to Jonathan, telling him all our heart’s burden. Young people should seek to have a friend older than themselves, to whom they can fly in trouble or in danger, and in whose faithful love they can find a sure and safe refuge. There is a wonderful strength in the confidence that one has such a friend.

“There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). Christ is the best, strongest, wisest, truest, most helpful friend anyone can have. His friendship is a refuge indeed. We can flee to Him in any danger, and find Him ready always to comfort, shelter, and bless. However many human friends we may have – we all need Jesus!

I’d love to hear your thoughts and comments on this article! Feel free to leave your reflections and ask your questions below.

God bless you and your family, this day and always.

All for our King’s glory,
Christian

photo by Prixel Creative  |  Lightstock.com

This post is another installment of Miller’s Monday Musings, a weekly series that is published every Monday on my website. The series features selected writings that have been adapted from the works of James Russell Miller (1840-1912), a much-beloved Christian author and pastor who is well-remembered for his practical thoughts on Christian home and family life. Learn more about this weekly series by clicking here.