We have friends of different sizes and description. Some bring with them any assortment of knowledge that you cannot buy them anywhere. You cannot force anyone to be a friend. Some come into our lives and stay. Some come in for a time and leave. Some come in for a specific purpose and exit. Some meander along with us throughout our lives. Some are life-long friends, made in childhood.
Then, there is one friend which we can all share, every one of us, if we wish. Not one person can lay claim to having met him first. No one has to worry about this friend coming and then leaving, or weaving in and out. This friend is here to stay, even when we think he isn't, or when we think that we do not need Him.
Jesus is a life-long friend. He is willing to be everyone's life-long friend, for now, for ever and always. We must strive, too, to be that kind of friend to Him.
John 15:12,14
This is my commandment that you love one another, as I have loved you. You are friends if you do whatever I command you.