Proverbs 19:7
Solomon paints a pretty grim picture in this verse - the individual is poor and his friends are fleeing from him while he is pleading with them. Quite a dismal situation. Have you ever been is such a situation? All seems lost and no one cares. The harder you try to appease your so-called friends, the faster they disappear.
I am reminded of David's plight after being anointed to be king by Samuel. He was successful in following God's will but unsuccessful in friendship. His closest friend, Jonathan, had to send him away due to the wrath of Saul. David fled across the mountains with a tattered group of men that might have been considered supporters and friends... until they also turned against him on numerous occasions. Each time, we are told that David threw himself down before God. And David defines the results in 2 Samuel 22.
We should follow David's example of not chasing after our friends but falling before God. He is able to sustain us in our times of trials and desertion. Jesus promises us comfort in John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Why should we worry when we have been promised a comforter? Let friends flee, for the Holy Spirit will remain.
