The statement “Wealth is not a permanent friend but friends are permanent wealth” implies that material possessions such as money, property, and other forms of wealth may come and go, but true friends are invaluable and can last a lifetime.
This statement has been proved time and again in both ancient and contemporary times.
To begin with, history provides us with several examples of how wealth fails to bring happiness and fulfillment. One such example is the story of King Midas, who was granted the power to turn everything he touched into gold. Initially, he was ecstatic with his newfound wealth, but soon realized that his ability was a curse as it turned even his beloved daughter into gold. In the end, he realized that true happiness could not be found in material possessions and that his relationships were far more valuable than gold.
Also, we can find some examples in the Bible to support this statement.
One of the most famous examples from the Bible is the story of Job. Job was a wealthy man who had many possessions, including livestock, servants, and land. However, when Satan challenged him, Job lost everything, including his wealth and health. But in the end, God restored his fortunes and gave him back his wealth. Job’s friends, however, remained a constant source of support throughout his trials. They stayed with him and comforted him, even though they did not always understand his situation. In Job 42:10-11, it is written, “And the Lord restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed, the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. Then all his brothers, all his sisters, and all those who had been his acquaintances before, came to him and ate food with him in his house; and they consoled him and comforted him for all the adversity that the Lord had brought upon him. Each one gave him a piece of silver and each a ring of gold.”
Another example from the Bible is the story of David and Jonathan. David was a shepherd who became a great king, while Jonathan was the son of King Saul. Although David and Jonathan were not equals in terms of social status, they had a deep friendship that was based on mutual respect and loyalty. When Saul became jealous of David and tried to kill him, Jonathan helped David escape and protected him. Their friendship lasted until Jonathan’s death, and David mourned deeply for him. In 1 Samuel 18:1, it is written, “Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.”
In contemporary times, many wealthy individuals struggle with loneliness and lack of genuine connections. In a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, it was found that people who prioritize money and material possessions tend to be more unhappy and have fewer social connections than those who value relationships.
On the other hand, true friends are a source of unconditional love and support. They are the people who stand by us through thick and thin, celebrate our successes, and provide a shoulder to cry on during difficult times. Such friendships are invaluable and can have a profound impact on our well-being.
Over time, research has shown that having a strong support system can reduce stress, boost mental health, and even increase lifespan.
Furthermore, friends can also provide opportunities for personal growth and development. They challenge us to be better versions of ourselves, provide constructive feedback, and help us to see things from different perspectives. Such friendships are a source of constant learning and growth, which is far more valuable than any material possession.
In more recent times, we can see many examples of people who have become wealthy but have lost their friends or have been betrayed by them. For instance, there are many stories of celebrities who have lost their fortunes and their fame because of addiction, financial mismanagement, or scandals. On the other hand, there are also many stories of people who have faced difficult times but have been supported by their friends. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have lost their jobs, their homes, or their loved ones, but they have found comfort and strength in their friendships.
The points to never forget are that, firstly, while wealth can provide temporary comfort and security, it is not a substitute for true friendship. As the Bible teaches us, friends are a precious gift that can help us through difficult times and enrich our lives in countless ways. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Therefore, we should cherish our friendships and nurture them, even as we strive for success in other areas of our lives.
And secondly, the importance of interpersonal relationships over material possessions: While wealth can provide temporary satisfaction, it is not a reliable source of happiness or fulfillment. But genuine friendships can provide a sense of belonging, support, and joy that lasts a lifetime.
There is need therefore to prioritize relationships over material possessions. While wealth can provide temporary pleasure and comfort, it is not a reliable source of long-term happiness or fulfillment. Whereas, genuine friendships can provide a sense of belonging, support, and joy that lasts a lifetime, making them a true form of permanent wealth.
And according to Proverbs 18:24, there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother. His name is JESUS CHRIST. He can be with you at all times unlike other friends and especually whenever the ships are down, He’ll be there for you!
“A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
