Friends

1st Sam 18: 1 to 3

I really like Michael W. Smiths song "Friends", I have taken the liberty of including a link to it at the bottom of this devotional. It is usually played at retirement and going away parties and sometimes even funerals. It is a great song anytime. God mad man with a need for companionship or friendship. Moses had Aaron and Hur (Exod. 17:10-12). I have Tracey as my friend and confidant. She keeps me on point. At times I am lost without her ministry of helps. She is the one I go to as my logical partner; I can't thank God enough for her help.

In todays's reading we see David and Jonathan. Almost from their first introduction they were fast friends. As Christians we are called to love all mankind with agape love. That is love not based in merit, it can't be earned and it is granted to them. However, we will not always "get along" with everyone. We will certainly never see eye to eye with others all the time. Not while we are in this flesh. There will always be those whose company we enjoy more than others. It is important to note that all true, lasting friendships are based on our love of Christ. I have a friend named Eddie. I have not seen him for 25 years. We recently reunited on Facebook. When I hear him speak, the wisdom of the Lord comes through. We have Christ at the center of our friendship. Without that common love of Christ there is no mutually uplifting, Godly companionship. It is the basis of a love and respect the world will never know. A mutual love of Christ also allows for honesty and transparency that is crucial. I never want to forget, as Michael W. Smith says, "A friend is a friend forever, when the Lord's the lord of them". We have eternity to fellowship. Who is your Aaron, Hur or Jonathan? Have you thanked them and God? Let us pray:

Lord, we thank you for true friends. Those who come along side us to lift us. They make us better than we could ever be without them. No relationship can exist one sided. With you at the center it makes a three fold cord. Your word tells us it will not be easily broken. Thank You for them. In Jesus' name, Amen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JsJ_TDaItM