Friendships. They grace our lives with love, encouragement, and commitment. Friends come alongside us on our journey and share our victories and failures. They cheer us on and perhaps admonish us as needed. The one with a faithful friend is truly blessed.

Other times, friendships are hurtful and disappointing. Listen to King David as he cries out to God over the loss and betrayal of his friends. “Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am in distress . . . Because of all my enemies, I am the utter contempt of my neighbors; I am a dread to my friends—those who see me on the street flee from me. For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side; they conspire against me and plot to take my life” (Psalm 31:9, 11, 13).

In the same chapter, we find who David chooses to trust. “But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, ‘You are my God’” and “Into your hands I commit my spirit” (Ps. 31:14, 5).

I’m sure you recognize that last phrase. Jesus chose to echo those words of David as He hung on the cross. Jesus likewise had experienced the betrayal and abandonment of His closest friends, His disciples.

In the midst of their suffering, David and Jesus knew the One to turn to, the One who would never leave, who would never betray, who they could depend on, and who would always love them no matter what. Their Heavenly Father, the Almighty God, and Faithful Friend.

We can turn to that same One.