FRIENDS

And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness, and he was called God’s friend”.  James 2:23 (NIV)

You are my friends if you do what I command.  John 15:14 (NIV)

I have many friends. Friends make life worth living. They bring positive things to encourage and strengthen, to make me laugh and enjoy perfect harmony. They are light in the midst of trouble clouds and darkness.

Is it possible to be friends with Almighty God, Creator of all? Scripture, inspired to us by God himself, assures us it is possible and shows us how.

A relationship with God requires righteousness. James 2:23 says Abraham believed God. For that, God credited him with righteousness and he became God’s friend. Abraham believed God not only in what he believed but also in what he did. For that, God made him Patriarch of God’s people.

Later, in John 5:12-17, Jesus, Son of God, said if we obey His commands we are His friends. His command? “Love one another.”

How do we love one another? Surely an attitude of respect and compassion is involved, but it is more than that. Action must be involved too. Jesus modeled it for us. He was a servant, although a suffering servant. He was a channel of God’s healing power as He ministered to bodies, relationships and emotions. Then He promised to be with us always so we may have power to love as He did.

So there you have it. Love God. Love People. Serve the world. God is a wonderful friend.

 

Prayer: Dear God, I want to be Your friend. Show me the way and help me follow it.

© 2019 Parker Wayland