| June 2005: His Friendship |
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JUNE 2005 DEVOTIONAL22 You see, [Abraham] was trusting God so much that he was willing to do whatever God told him to do. His faith was made complete by what he did – by his actions. 23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: "Abraham believed God, so God declared him to be righteous." He was even called "the friend of God."James 2:22-23 Have you ever heard the old hymn, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”? I recall singing this pretty, lyrical song as a child (and trying desperately to sing good harmonies with my sister!) while pondering how someone could truly be a friend with … God! Afterall, my friends and I played tag. We played fetch with the neighborhood dog and licked popsicles in the summer heat. My friends and I dressed up and played “beauty pageant” (I had a serious tiara addiction.) And we talked about everything (even kissing boys!) over hot fudge sundaes and a hot plate of french fries. As a child, it was hard to imagine doing that with Jesus.But as I’ve grown older, I’ve become to understand – and deeply appreciate – the concept of friendship with God. As my relationship with the Lord has matured, I have turned to him throughout so many of life’s struggles, and like a friend he has comforted me. When I’ve felt lost and confused, wondering where to turn next, God’s Word has been a friend, offering me wise words of direction. As I’ve experienced tremendous successes and even a funny situation, I’ve learned to share it with Jesus and sense his pleasure and laughter – just like a friend. This might sound crazy, but when I’ve traveled solo for my job I often would go out to dinner and pretend that Jesus was sitting across from me. In silence I would contemplate an entire conversation with him, visualizing the Lord as best as I could, and feeling his presence. (I was careful not to talk out loud or order him a salad – that probably would have been over the top.) But I truly enjoyed his companionship – his friendship – in those moments, and I encourage you to try this yourself. Imagine having a long talk with him in your car. Or, as you journal, ask him how you can love him better today. Before you go to sleep – and before you pick up the phone to call a friend, spend some time talking to God and sharing every detail of your day. And yes, of course, he’s very interested. Remember he made you AND that day, and I’m sure he’d love to hear how you enjoyed living it. Love,Lisa Kinakin
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