Our Best Friend
“This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I
have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s
friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you slaves
because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I
have told you everything the Father told me.”1
On Jesus’ last night with his disciples, they gathered
together for the last supper. During this time, Jesus shared his last thoughts
and words of wisdom preparing them for the coming days and beyond. He spoke
about friendship because this is the relationship they shared. He wanted them
to remember this when they saw the cross. He was laying his life down for them
and all of humanity because we are his friends, and his sacrifice was a sign of
the greatest love there is.
We were created for friendship with God. He desires that we
not only know about him, but that we know him personally. He has given us His
Word, the Bible, to tell us all there is to know. Jesus is our King, whose
commands we obey, but he has also given us his friendship to enjoy. What an
amazing gift!
In a time where true friends are difficult to find, Jesus
is the best friend we will ever have. He will never leave or forsake us, and
will work all things for our good. He draws near to us in our pain, and shows
us His grace and faithfulness when we stumble. He wants only the best for us,
and His Holy Spirit will alert us when we veer off track. In good times and
hard times, He is our constant friend. Let us respond to this friendship by
living in obedience to Him and demonstrating His love to others.
Suggested prayer: Lord, thank you for the gift of your
friendship. Being the Almighty King, you chose to give your life for me and
invite me to be your friend. I want to obey you and follow your example in how
I demonstrate love and friendship to others. Thank you for hearing and
answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.
1. John 15:12-15
(NLT).
Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.