The Fragrance of Close Relationships
My dear son,
As fragrant oil delights the heart, a friend's kind words can leave lasting happiness. I hope that kind of friendship is present near you. Treasure the time you spend greeting each other warmly and listening to one another's stories.
Do not easily forget old friends, and care gently for nearby neighbors. Let your shared history continue into love. Seek them on ordinary days to share a smile, as well as when something has happened and you need help.
Tell me this evening about a face that brings gratitude. Let us enjoy the kindness you have received. I treasure a life in which you find good friends and become a caring neighbor to someone else.
With all my love,
Your Father
Proverbs 27:9–10
WEB9Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart; so does earnest counsel from a man’s friend.
10Don’t forsake your friend and your father’s friend. Don’t go to your brother’s house in the day of your disaster. A neighbor who is near is better than a distant brother.
A short reflection
The teacher in Proverbs compares a friend's heartfelt counsel to fragrant oil, urges faithfulness to longstanding friendships, and emphasizes the value of a nearby neighbor.
World English Bible (WEB) · Public DomainRead the chapter