Daily Scripture Reading: John 15:15 KJV
John 15:15 KJV
(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.
Today’s Devotional Is CHRIST IS OUR FRIEND
I have read somewhere that Raphael, who was to succeed Michael Angelo at the peak of his fame, was introduced to Angelo as a promising pupil. The lad started out cleaning paint brushes and mixing paints. But he soon developed the skills of punctuality, accuracy, and empathy that made him a trusted friend and confidant. As redeemed from Satan’s slavery, we are called His servants and He calls us His friends.
A friend will tell the truth. The world may think it knows a famous person, but if he calls him his friend, I expect to be closer to him and to hear his confidential information. So it is with Jesus Christ. He shows Himself to those who love Him and keep His word.
Friends will be interested in their friends’ undertakings. Christ is delighted when His loved ones are able take part in His world-wide redemptive plans. It is an honor for us, but it is equally a delight and pleasure to Him to share the joy of working with another twin-soul. It’s amazing that Jesus loves us and is happy to have us as fellow-workers.
Our successes and failures will interest a friend. It is not possible for our Lord to do otherwise. If He sees a peril that threatens us, doesn’t He make the trial hour one of special intercessions? If we fail, He will meet us with the same tender affection. Not alienated but still deeply sorry for our mistakes and ready to help us try again. He will meet us when we are ready to give up, happy to support us and to help us heal any injuries we might have sustained.
This is the Friendship of Jesus. He is the same, His love does not fade, and its manifestations never fail. It is worth making every effort to follow His commands so that we may abandon Him completely.
PRAYER for Today
Heavenly Father, we ask that Jesus Christ might become more dear to us. We are to love Him as our Friend and be able to hide in His hourly awareness. We should not have any desire or taste for things He does not approve of. Let His love not limit us to living unto ourselves but for His glory. AMEN.