BECOMING BEST FRIENDS WITH GOD 1
This morning, I wish to share my reflections on the theme of “Becoming Best Friends With God.” It is a topic that has been weighing on my heart, particularly as I recall the early days of my relationship with my wife. Although she prefers that I refrain from discussing her too frequently from the pulpit, I hope she will grant me some leniency today. When I first encountered her, I was immediately struck by the warmth and kindness that seemed to emanate from her. At that time, I was fervently praying for a partner, as I was serving as an associate pastor at Daystar, where only two of us on the pastoral board were unmarried. The teasing from my colleagues during our meetings often felt relentless, with comments from my pastor and others that only intensified my feelings of being overlooked by God.
The atmosphere during those meetings could be quite challenging, as my peers would often make light of our single status, even suggesting that we should be excluded from discussions about marital matters. This kind of treatment was not only embarrassing but also served as a constant reminder of my longing for companionship. It was during this tumultuous period, following the end of my first serious relationship, that I met my wife. I had just experienced the heartache of a two-year relationship that had come to an abrupt end, leaving me feeling vulnerable and uncertain. However, as I began to connect with my wife, I found solace and hope in the budding relationship, which seemed to blossom at a time when I needed it most.
At a time when I was deeply heartbroken, I encountered my future wife. Initially, our relationship began as a simple friendship; we shared a meal together, but I was clear from the outset about my emotional state. I candidly expressed to her that I was not interested in pursuing any romantic relationship, as I was still reeling from a previous heartbreak. I had resolved to remain emotionally detached for at least a year or two, convinced that love had only brought me pain. My intention was to protect her from potential hurt, and I bluntly communicated that I was not in a place to engage in any form of romantic involvement. Unbeknownst to me, my forthrightness was perceived as somewhat offensive, as she had not anticipated any romantic implications. My rationale was simple: as a pastor, I believed it was better to be upfront about my emotional unavailability to avoid causing distress to a fellow church member.
Several months later, during another outing, I found myself compelled to share my evolving feelings with her. I confessed that I was beginning to develop deeper feelings, and the term “like” no longer seemed adequate; I was starting to love her. Her reaction was one of shock, as she recalled my earlier insistence on keeping things platonic. This sudden shift in my feelings left her bewildered, as she had not anticipated such a development. While I was eager to pursue marriage, she preferred to maintain our friendship. My desire to announce our engagement to my peers at the pastor’s meeting was strong, as I longed for validation and relief from their incessant inquiries about my relationship status. Our interactions at church became a blend of friendly greetings and my persistent reminders of my intentions, while she remained steadfast in her wish to keep things as friends, creating a complex dynamic between us.
In my previous discussions, I expressed my perspective on friendship, particularly in the context of my past interactions with a close companion. I often conveyed to her that I felt I had outgrown the concept of friendship, as my primary desire was to marry. On several occasions, we reached a mutual understanding that our friendship could only persist if it was grounded in a commitment that would ultimately lead to marriage. This sentiment reflects a broader truth about how many individuals approach their relationship with God. Many people tend to seek divine intervention primarily for breakthroughs, rather than fostering a genuine relationship. They may express to God that their connection could deepen if they receive blessings, prioritizing their needs over the relational aspect that God desires.
This dynamic mirrors the way some individuals engage with God, reminiscent of historical practices where worship was transactional rather than relational. There are those who approach God sporadically, akin to a distant figure who demands offerings without fostering a meaningful connection. This transactional mindset is evident in various cultural expressions, where individuals invoke God’s name in different dialects, often with the expectation of receiving something in return. However, God emphasizes that the essence of faith lies not in seeking breakthroughs but in cultivating a profound relationship with Him. The foundation of any enduring relationship, including that with God, is rooted in genuine friendship and love, which transcends mere requests for favors. My journey in Christianity has taught me that it is fundamentally about nurturing this love affair with the divine, prioritizing the relationship above all else.
A profound relationship with the divine can be likened to a love affair with God, which ultimately evolves into a covenant—a sacred agreement that assures stability and trust in the relationship.
This covenant alleviates any anxiety regarding uncertainties, as it establishes a firm foundation for the connection. The essence of this relationship begins with friendship; God desires to cultivate a deep and meaningful friendship with each individual. This invitation extends to everyone, emphasizing that God seeks to be not just a distant figure but a close companion, fostering a bond that transcends mere transactional interactions.
In this context, God encourages individuals to approach Him not solely with their needs but also with a genuine expression of friendship. The notion of presenting a “seed of friendship” signifies the importance of nurturing a relationship that is not based on mere requests or emergencies. Many people tend to engage with God only during times of crisis, treating the relationship as a transactional one, akin to a business arrangement. This pattern mirrors common grievances found in personal relationships, where one partner may feel exploited or unappreciated. God yearns for a reciprocal relationship, urging individuals to move beyond a utilitarian approach and to embrace a deeper, more fulfilling connection rooted in friendship.
In the fifteenth chapter of the Gospel of John, verses 13 to 18 convey profound insights into the nature of friendship and the expectations that accompany it. The text begins with the assertion that there is no greater love than that which compels an individual to sacrifice their life for a friend. This sentiment is further elaborated in verse 14, where the relationship between the speaker and his followers is defined; they are considered friends, contingent upon their adherence to his commands. The subsequent verse, verse 15, emphasizes a shift in status from servants to friends, highlighting the intimate knowledge shared between them. The speaker reveals that he has disclosed all that he has learned from the Father, indicating a deep level of trust and connection. Furthermore, it is stated that the followers did not choose this relationship; rather, they were chosen and appointed to bear lasting fruit, with the assurance that their requests made in the speaker’s name will be granted. The concluding command to love one another encapsulates the essence of this friendship.
The theme of friendship is further explored through a reference to Genesis chapter 18, where God contemplates whether to conceal his intentions from Abraham, whom He regards as both friend and servant. This passage underscores the significance of trust and revelation in a friendship, as God acknowledges Abraham’s potential to become a great nation through which all nations will be blessed. The relationship is characterized by a mutual understanding and a commitment to righteousness, as God entrusts Abraham with the responsibility of guiding his descendants in the ways of the Lord. This connection illustrates that true friendship is built on shared knowledge and the ability to confide in one another, reinforcing the idea that the most profound secrets are reserved for those who are closest to us.
The Lord’s intention is to fulfill the promises made to Abraham, and we should offer our praises to God for this assurance. In my recent readings, I have also delved into the life of Moses, particularly focusing on Exodus 33:11. This verse, as presented in the King James Version, states, “And the Lord spoke unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend.” Following this divine encounter, Moses returned to the camp, while his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, chose to remain in the tabernacle. This distinction highlights that while Moses experienced an intimate dialogue with God, Joshua was observing from a different vantage point, not yet prepared to engage in that level of friendship with the Almighty. His focus was not on cultivating a personal relationship but rather on a more distant reverence.
It is crucial for us to recognize that God desires to be both our Father and our friend, transcending the roles of Creator, Master, Judge, and Redeemer. This relationship is not merely one of ordinary companionship but is intended to be profoundly strong, rooted in knowledge rather than mere religious practices or methodologies. Many individuals approach God through the lens of religion, adhering to established rituals and traditions. However, the Bible indicates that the old covenant has been replaced with a new one, designed to enhance our understanding of this relationship. To illustrate this point, consider how one might feel if their spouse presented the same gift every Valentine’s Day; such predictability could feel more like a ritual than a genuine expression of love. This analogy underscores that religion often imposes rigid structures and patterns on our approach to God, which can inhibit the development of a true, heartfelt connection.
When engaging in a relationship with the divine, one must consider the nature of that connection. Imagine a scenario where a spouse, in an effort to express love and romance, composes a heartfelt poem that resonates deeply with you. This poem becomes a cherished ritual, recited every first Saturday of the month. However, over time, one might wonder if the well of inspiration has run dry, questioning the lack of new expressions. This analogy reflects how many approach their relationship with God through structured rituals and repetitive prayers, adhering to established guidelines year after year. Yet, God desires a more dynamic and spontaneous relationship, akin to that of true friends who revel in each other’s company without the constraints of formality.
The essence of friendship transcends mere adherence to rules; it thrives on genuine connection and mutual enjoyment.
God has expressed a desire for this kind of friendship, moving beyond the confines of the Old Testament’s religious practices. The New Testament emphasizes this shift, inviting believers into a more intimate relationship with the divine. The renowned artist Israel Houghton encapsulates this sentiment in his song, proclaiming, “I am a friend of God.” This notion of friendship is further echoed in the hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” which celebrates the profound companionship found in faith. As you reflect on this message, consider the significance of sharing secrets with friends; to truly understand the mysteries of God, one must cultivate a friendship with Him.
God contemplated the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and recognized the importance of confiding in Abraham, whom He regarded as a close friend. This reflects the essence of true friendship, where one can reach out to a friend in times of uncertainty or impending folly, seeking counsel and guidance.
A genuine friend is someone who can provide a voice of reason, urging one to reconsider rash decisions or, if one is determined to proceed, to offer a safer alternative.
This dynamic illustrates the depth of trust and communication that characterizes a meaningful relationship, emphasizing the value of sharing one’s thoughts and struggles with a confidant.
Throughout the narrative of Abraham’s life, particularly from Genesis chapters 12 to 20, he experienced numerous profound interactions with God. A notable instance occurs in Genesis 14, where Abraham’s nephew Lot is captured by King Chedorlaomer along with his possessions. In response to this crisis, Abraham, empowered by his relationship with God, mobilized 318 trained servants from his household to rescue Lot. This act of bravery and leadership culminated in a decisive victory, allowing Abraham to reclaim not only Lot but also all that had been taken. This episode exemplifies the strength and favor that Abraham enjoyed through his faith, showcasing the extraordinary outcomes that can arise from a deep spiritual connection.
During Abraham’s return from his journey, he encountered Melchizedek, who greeted him with the proclamation of being blessed by the Lord Most High, El-Elyon, the Creator of heaven and earth. In recognition of this blessing, Abraham offered Melchizedek a tithe of all he possessed. Following this exchange, Melchizedek pronounced a blessing upon Abraham, after which Abraham continued on his path. As the narrative unfolds in Genesis 15, God approached Abraham with the intention of elevating their covenant to a more profound level. This involved the ritual of sacrificing animals, with blood flowing as a symbol of the covenant’s renewal. God then passed between the divided pieces, affirming that this covenant was now of a higher grade.
As the story progresses into Genesis 16 and 17, God communicated further with Abraham, indicating that a significant change was imminent regarding his relationship with his wife. The period of waiting was nearing its conclusion, and both Abraham and his wife found themselves laughing at the prospect of what was to come. By the time one reaches Genesis 18, the narrative shifts to the grave matter of the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah, which had reached a critical point. God declared His intention to destroy these cities, yet before taking action, He engaged in a conversation with Abraham, highlighting the nature of their relationship as one of deep friendship and trust, where best friends confide in one another.