40 Days of Purpose: Day 12 Developing the friendship.

Who makes the first move?

Here’s a crazy thought by Rick Warren in ‘The Purpose Driven Life’ book, “You are as close to God as you choose to be.” Think about our natural friendships. We know this to be true in those relationships, it’s no different with God.

Any friendship takes intention. Friendships don’t build by accident. Time, effort, vulnerability, trust, enjoyment are all components of a growing and healthy friendship.

“Come near to God and he will come near to you.”

James 4:8 NIV

An essential element of friendship is honesty. God is not expecting us to be perfect but is imploring us to be honest. Honesty with our feelings, take them to God. Honesty with our thoughts, take them to God. Honesty with our questions, take them to God. Authenticity is looked upon favourably by God.

Obedience in faith builds the friendship. Every time we trust God and his wisdom and follow, we deepen the friendship. Remember, when talking about a friendship with God we’re not talking of a casual relationship. We’re talking about intimacy.

We are friends with God but we are not his equals.

Our following of God comes from a place of love. Trusting that he knows best. True friendship is not passive, it acts. When we read of Jesus calling us into acting on his behalf toward other people, he’s calling us to actually do something.

Friends align values. What’s important to my friend is important to me. What’s of most value to God? What does he care about? People. God cares most for people and their reconciliation back to him. Do we truly value people?

Let our desire for friendship with God be above anything else. Nothing should matter more. This is the God of the universe. God who made all we see and all we don’t see. The author of life. Surely there isn’t anything more important than intimacy with God. He wants it, do we?

This is our choice. Let’s choose him.

Summary:

Remember – We are as close to God as we choose to be.

Key Bible Verse – “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” James 4:8 NIV

Pray: Lord, search me and know me that I may know you.