Friday, May 17, 2024

Jesus, the son of God, called us friends. His desire to have a deep and rich relationship with you and me should serve as a foundation for our friendships with others. When we use Jesus as our guide, our friendships can become more fulfilling and fruitful.

Jesus had purposeful and life-giving friendships—ones he took time to nurture and grow. He was the teacher, not because he wanted control, but because he cared for his followers and wanted them to be their best. Jesus lovingly explained the secrets of the Kingdom of God to his friends. Then, out of a love for their relationship, his friends carried Jesus’ message to others.

John 15:15
“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.”

There were times when Jesus was frustrated with his friends, but he never gave up on them. He saw the potential in them and knew what they were capable of. He made an investment in them, not as slaves to do his bidding, but as friends to share a message. He gently and lovingly helped them understand the Father’s heart.

I feel so blessed to attend a life-giving church that emphasizes the value of relationships. In our previous series, Losing My Religion, we were encouraged to deepen our relationship with God the Father, and during this series, we are reminded to deepen our relationships with our friends. It is not out of obligation that we are called to do these things, but out of love, just as Jesus loves us.

Relationships take time and energy. Sometimes you give, because your friends need a little extra help, a sounding board, or a reminder that they matter. Other times, you reach out because you are the one carrying a burden too heavy to bear alone.

All relationships need God in the center of them to be life-giving. Follow Jesus and emulate his model for friendship.

Questions:
Do you reach out to your friends, or do you wait for them to reach out to you?

Next Steps:
Take the time to make a call, send a card, or maybe invite a friend to attend church with you this week.

One of my favorite new songs is “Jesus Loves You” by Jason Gray. It reminds me that Jesus loves me, and he loves you too. Check it out!

Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for calling me your friend. Thank you for reminding me that I am not a slave to my religion, but rather a friend to the message of salvation. Grant me courage to share the Good News with my friends and encourage them on their journeys. I pray that I can praise and honor God always and in all ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:

Proverbs 17:17 ESV
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Today’s post was written by Julie Estep, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.