DIVINE FRIENDSHIP (Part II)

DIVINE FRIENDSHIP (Part II)

Abraham, the patriarch of faith, was accorded a superb commendation by The Almighty: “He was called the Friend of God.” (James 2:23)  Just think about it.  What a supreme honor to be the designated friend of the Creator of Heaven, earth, and every animate being and inanimate object therein! 

It is important to note that Abraham’s friendship status was directly connected to his faith response to the will and Word of God.  God had issued a challenging and inexplicable command to Abraham (whose name was Abram at the time and would later be changed by God): “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” (Genesis 12:1)  Bear this in mind: God had not yet revealed a reason for this radical relocation or a description of the ultimate destination.  The scene was set up by Heaven to provoke a pure and unequivocal act of faith.  God simply said ‘Gather your stuff and start walking.  I will guide your footsteps and I let you know when you arrive.’  Wow!  Double Wow!!

I wonder how we might have responded to such a “walk by faith, not by sight” situation. (II Corinthians 5:17)  Fidelity, or faithfulness to God’s Word, is an indispensable requirement of our stewardship. (I Corinthians 4:2)

Abraham’s faith was tested in ways I could scarcely endure or imagine.  I really don’t understand how he mustered sufficient faith (with Sarah) to believe-to-conceive a baby son at the age of great-grandparenthood. And I really don’t understand how he escorted their only son, Isaac, to the top of Mt. Moriah, prepared to offer him as a sacrifice to God.  What a terrifying telegram he had received from Heaven: “Take your son, your only son whom you love – Isaac – and go to the region of Moriah.  Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering.” (Genesis 22:2)  The inner turmoil and agony must have been excruciating, even unbearable, but Abraham acquiesced to the divine will and obeyed without hesitation.  Paul penned this passage of tribute to Abraham and his demonstrative faith: “He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able to perform.” (Romans 4:20-21) 

In fact, Abraham’s faith in God’s Word was so profound that it was “credited to him as righteousness.” (James 2:23)  No wonder he was deemed the friend of God.

Whenever we review the saga of Abraham, we tend to focus on obvious crisis points that seem to dominate his life experience.  However, we must never ignore the bountiful blessings that accrued to Abraham, his family and his nation due to his unmitigated trust in God.  As a result, not only was Abraham one of the wealthiest men of his era, he became the revered Patriarch of three world religions: Christianity, Judaism and Islam.  In fact, his personal influence is so far reaching that it is difficult to quantify its impact on human history.  Thus, the conditional promise that God gave Abraham is verifiably accurate: “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.  I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” (Genesis 12:2-3)

There is a wondrous lesson here for believers.  The Word declares that we are also entitled to participate in this phenomenal friendship covenant with Almighty God.  Yes, God’s occasional directives to us may feel formidable and challenging, but our obedience invariably connects us to divine favor and amazing benefits.

Most importantly, it is a signal honor and privilege to forge such an intimate association with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  According to inspirational lyrics by Anthony Showalter, each day in the life of a Christian is a faith adventure that can be best described as “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms.”  Although at times we appear to walk through troubled and dark places, we are guaranteed the constant counsel and comfort of “the light of the world.” (John 8:12)

My personal affirmation during times of testing is sure and simple: “I Am a Friend of God!”

Who am I that YOU are mindful of me?
That YOU hear me when I call?
Is it true that YOU are thinking of me?
How YOU love me…it’s amazing…
It’s amazing!

I Am a Friend of GOD…
I Am a Friend of GOD…
I Am a Friend of GOD…
HE calls me Friend!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed!