The message of the Bible is that a friendship with God is possible today through His son Jesus. We should not think of God as someone who is far off. The bible says in John 14 that God wants to come and make His home in us. God is our friend! Nearness and friendship with God is possible. However, we must not forget that sin hinders this friendship with God. Sin, according to the word of God, leads to death and makes friendship with God not much of a friendship at all. (See John 14:15) The question is not how God can be a better friend to us, bur rather it is how can we be a better friend to God. Any good, real relationship takes time, communication, sacrifice, and trust. These are all things that Jesus is commanding us to respond with today.
Verses to know/Further Study:
John 15:12-15
Colossians 3:1-3 & 12-16
Galatians 5:16-26
Ephesians 2:19
Luke 22:31-32
Questions:
In your opinion, what will it take to be a friend with someone? Now think of how you have been those things to Jesus… and how He has been those things to you.
What can you do today to be a better friend of God?
How is it possible that we can be friends of God?