“Oh, for the days when I was in my prime, when God’s intimate friendship blessed my house,” Job 29:4 NIV
How do you perceive God? Do you see Him as a friend? When Job was going through so much difficulty he thought back to earlier days and one of the things he missed the most was the feeling of friendship he had with God. I have to wonder if one of the reasons God allowed Job to be put to the test was so that Job would come to realize his friendship with God was not contingent upon life going well.
When we talk about having a personal relationship with God, we’re actually talking about knowing God intimately and enjoying His friendship. Have you ever wondered why the Bible calls the church the “bride” of Christ? God chose the most intimate human relationship to describe the relationship He desires with us. Even though we never lose sight of God’s authority, it’s awesome to know that He desires intimate friendship with each one of us.
“You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” John 15:14-15 NIV
Friendship with God does not mean that we are on equal footing. He is still God. Our relationship must be built on the understanding that He is our Creator and that gives Him the right to determine what’s best in every situation, but it’s awesome to know that Jesus would rather refer to us as friends than servants.
“And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God.” James 2:23 NLT
“The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent.” Exodus 33:11 NIV
Even David, with all his mistakes was still referred to by God as the apple of His eye. As you read the Psalms, it’s easy to see how much he loved God and enjoyed His friendship.
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11 ESV
Think about your relationship with God. If it’s not close, like that of a good friend, I challenge you to spend more time seeking God in prayer, and enjoying His word. Take the time to develop your relationship with Him. Just like any other relationship, the more time you spend together the closer you will be.