12). This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. 13). Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. 14). Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. 15). Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. 16). Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you. 17). These things I command you, that ye love one another.
JOHN 15:12-17
Many of us are familiar with the hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” We know that our Savior is a great friend (See JOHN 15:15), but let’s consider some specific aspects of His relationship with us. He is ...
Committed to us. This commitment is for more than a lifetime—it’s eternal. And though life is bound to hold some disappointments, the Lord Himself will never let us down.
Open and transparent at all times. Jesus will continually show us more about Himself as we desire to learn.
Sensitive to our wants as well as our needs. He knows how to meet our deepest longings and lovingly invites us—over and over—to connect with Him.
An inspiring, comforting listener who’s never quick to criticize. He doesn’t interrupt, and His eyes are so lovingly fixed on us that His heart hears exactly what we are saying.
What kind of friend is Jesus? JOHN 15:13 answers that question: “Greater love has no man than this, that a man will lay down his life for his friends.” Because He gave Himself for all people, we as His followers can certainly offer our friendship to someone else. Who in your circle of influence needs the sacrifice of your time or care?
-IBC
Comments