I am a friend of God.

Because I believe that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead, I am a friend of God. Being called Jesus’ friend or God’s friend is a privileged position. John 15:15 “No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.” Jesus makes the distinction between a servant and a friend. A servant is one who does the bidding of his master, one who works without knowing the plans, motives and purposes behind what he is doing and receives little to no reward for his service. Whereas a friend is someone who is brought into close confidence with Him and with whom Jesus shares His knowledge of the Father. In scripture Abraham was referred to as a friend of God. James 2:23 ” and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God.” Through his faith and faithfulness towards God, Abraham was recognized by God as His friend and he was rewarded with righteousness.

Friendship with Jesus brings us an even greater closeness as we know who He is and what He desires for mankind. We share in His vision and purpose when we are His friends. Unlike a servant, as friends of Jesus we have multiple rewards now and in the future because of this relationship. I have a really close friend that now lives near Los Angeles. For years we lived close enough to see each other each week and share our hopes, dreams, struggles and worries. We supported one another in prayer, gave encouragement and listened with a heart of love. Proverbs 17:17a “A friend loves at all times,” describes friend loves my friend. She has been there for me and stood by me in some really difficult times. My friend is still my friend even though I don’t see her every week. I know I can call her and she will listen, pray and encourage me no matter what. Jesus is an even greater friend as He goes beyond all earthly friendships. He intercedes for me with the Father (Romans 8:26), and He listens and encourages me through prayer (Hebrews 4:15). He has good planned for me (Jeremiah 29:11), and He loves me (John 3:16). Just like Abraham, I need to be faithful and full of faith in Jesus, then His righteousness will be credited to me. Knowing and trusting Jesus as my Savior will wash and cleanse me and will result in His righteousness being imputed to me. Proverbs 22:11 “He who loves purity of heart, and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.