We have all heard the expression: “You can count your real friends on one hand”. As we live, we find this to be true. A ‘friend’ is defined as an intimate companion or associate, one attached to another by affection or esteem.”
We can have many acquaintances. We may know who they are when we see them, and there is friendliness extended to each other in any contact. These are good things. But a true friend is one who knows who we really are, and loves us anyway. A real friend “loves at all times” – unconditionally. They always have our best interest at heart. They will never try to take advantage of us. They will never gossip about us, or say things about us that can deeply hurt. They will tell us things we might not want to hear that will help us, but they will do that in a loving way. They truly want the best for us, and will always cheer us on.
This is the kind of friend we all want and need. Someone we can be totally who we are with, and know we will not be judged. Someone that will listen when we talk, and give us their best thoughts in return. Someone who shows by words and action that they care about what is going on in our lives and are there to help in any way they can.
Our greatest friend, one who fits every description and fills every need of a friend, is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We read in the gospel of John where Jesus said, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you… Now remain in my love…. I have called you friends, for everything I have learned from my Father I have made known to you….. Love each other.” John 15: 9,15,17
Jesus loves us, and He is our Friend. He has said it, and He has shown it. Let us walk in His Friendship. Let us relish it. Let us realize how close He wants to be with us as friends. He is BFF at every level of our life. Let us be a friend to Him in words and action. Let us show Him we love Him, and treasure His friendship. Let us talk to Him about everything. Let us listen as He responds.
Let us be the kind of friend that we want to have. The Lord will open the door to real friends. He will impress upon our hearts when a companion or associate is to become an intimate friend. When that happens, He will be in that Friendship circle.
What joy that shall bring.
God’s Beloveds, I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power, and love and wisdom through His Spirit in your inner being. May you be encouraged, and strengthened, and comforted by His Word.
Poppa B.
Abundant Life Christian Fellowship, On Line