Introduction: No greater praise could be given to
any mortal man than to say he is the friend of God. Three times in the Bible Abraham
called the friend of God (2 Chronicles 20:7; Isaiah 41:8; James 2:23). Let’s,
trace out some of the predominant characteristics that made Abraham to become God’s
friend. No doubt these same traits transferred to our lives will cause us to be
God's friends (John 15:14).
- Faithfulness: Friendship is built on mutual faithfulness between two friends. God was faithful to Abraham and Abraham faithfully obeyed God all that He commanded him to do (Genesis 12 and Hebrews 11:8 -10). He was not only a man of faith but also a man of faithfulness. Are we faithful in our friendship with God and others?
- Promptness: Friendship is proven in promptness of obedience and help to one another. God was at his help and in response he obeyed God promptly (Genesis 21:2; Hebrew 11:8-10). If we obey to His commands promptly as true friend He will promptly rescue us from our trouble (Proverbs 1:33; Psalm 50: 14-15).
- Devoted: Friendship is sustained through lifelong commitment to one another. Abraham was devoted to God all through his life (Genesis 12:8). God committed to protect and to provide all that Abraham needed (Genesis 15:1-3). We too need to build more altars into various walks of our life to maintain our friendship with God.
- Unselfishness: Unselfishness makes friendship brighter and brighter. Jesus demonstrated His unselfish love by dying for His friends selflessly (John 15:13-14). As a friend and intercessor (Genesis 18:19) Abraham, entreated God not to destroy the righteous along with wicked of Sodom and Gomorrah. We are called to be His friends not to approach God with our selfish desires but to have compassionate hearts and a deep concern for the salvation of the lost, no matter what their sins may be. (9:1-3; 10:1).
Conclusion: Abraham and God
communicated well with each other like friends (Genesis 18:17). However,
friendship with God is not only a matter of privilege but also a matter of obligations
discussed above.
Yours in His service
G. Paul Raj
