Rev. E. Anderson
FRIEND “Friend” - this is a choice word not only expressed in the Bible but is a very much used word in life in human associations. It is seemingly identified with all that is good and precious and certainly regarded with value especially when connected with some noble person in close and beneficial relationship.
A ‘friend’ is categorized as a person known well to another and regarded with liking, affection and loyalty. They are thought of as a near acquaintance and associate, that one has warm and cherished accord with. The affinity is such a strong bond that there can be an honest sharing in confidence respecting those things that are of a personal nature. This kind of person is a worthy and consistent support, lending immense succour and strength when required. Inn adverse circumstances and conditions it is a great thing to have such people around rendering invaluable friendship.
It is worthy of note that God goes as far as calling Abraham – “my friend” – Isaiah 41: 8. This man had been brought into a very close union with God to the point that he was considered as a real associate with Him in the bringing to pass of God’s purposes on a great scale. Abraham was in on the plans of God and sought within his period on earth to cultivate a strong union that would achieve great things. He found “friendship” with God to be so beautiful and meaningful, and as a consequence, it left a rich legacy for all to meditate on to profit. God was not to desert him and neither was he going to forsake the Lord. There was to be a lasting bond of affection and commitment on the part of both.
God enables people to strike up wholesome partnerships with others within His providential arrangements. Naomi found a great friendship with a daughter-in-law that yielded so much blessing. David found a bond with Jonathan that was to prove an inspiration in life when facing great problems. Even Elijah, lonely as he felt at one time, discovered that God had lined up a young man, Elisha, who would not only succeed him but become a genuine friend, companion and associate.
It is God’s desire that you strike up with worthy and noble people so that your life is enriched in this way. Christ addresses all those who have placed their faith in him as “friends” and He seeks their “friendship”. He came specifically with this objective in view and achieved it by means of becoming man’s Saviour and Reconciler through His death. He takes the hand of God in one hand and the hand of humanity in the other and joins them as one at the Cross. When a person permits Him into their lives He establishes a dynamic contact in a divine way and friendship of the highest and best kind is introduced into life. As far as He is concerned, such are more than servants, they are His close contacts and disciples: they are His companions and confidants.
He seeks to share things of a very personal and important nature with them – with you! It is imperative that you know this friendship and do not delay to establish it within your life whilst it is opportune.
“Friendship is the positive choice of a person whom we have singled out for qualities we most admire” – Bonnard
PRAYER
Lord let me discover the reality and wealth of a lasting friendship with you that will be most profitable and pleasurable
