Day 11
Becoming Best Friends
with God
All this is done by God,
who through Christ
changed us from enemies
into his friends
2 Corinthians 5:18a TEV
Two songs are running through my head today. The first is …
What a Friend we have in Jesus
Some people find it radical to comprehend that God wants to be friends with us. Old Testament Jews certainly would have! Nevertheless, that’s our theme for today in our readings from The Purpose-Driven Life.
- God is holy. And some who have a high view of God’s holiness find it hard (even unholy) to view God as “friend.”
- Nevertheless, scripture also tells us that God desires a relationship – even friendship – with us. Unfortunately, some who view God as a buddy fail to bend their knees to his holiness.
While both are true, today’s emphasis is upon God’s desire for a personal relationship with each of us. “What a Friend we have in Jesus” reminds us of God’s ever-active, ever-loving part in this relationship. Consequently, if that relationship hasn’t blossomed into abiding friendship – and even you “hearing God’s voice” – the barrier, of course, is on our end.
But don’t worry. This is a common human problem. In fact, that’s why Rick Warren doesn’t entitle today’s chapter, “God is your Best Friend” (as if it’s an accomplished fact and we’ve all got it figured out) but “Becoming Best Friends with God” (as in, “this is a practical how-to guide for greater joy!”).
That’s why I’m singing a second song today (inspired by today’s chapter) …
I want to know you
I want to hear your voice
I want to know you more
Do you know that song? Rick Warren – as one of his how-to tools – suggests breath prayers. This song is my breath prayer for today.
It’s also a confession: Pastors need to grow in faith, prayer, and relationship too. “O God, I want to know you more.”
In Christ’s Love
a singer
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