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Embracing the Joy of Friendship with God
Have you ever stopped to consider what it means to be friends with God? In today’s episode, Mike McKinley delves into the concept of friendship with God, exploring what it looks like to have an intimate relationship with our Creator.
Overcoming Suspicion and Intimacy
When we think about being friends with God, we may struggle with feelings of overfamiliarity or a lack of reverence. Mike acknowledges these concerns, pointing to the rich biblical theology that reveals a God who is both holy and loving.
Jesus’ Example of Friendship
Mike highlights Jesus’ own friendships on earth, including his relationships with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. He notes that Jesus calls his disciples friends, demonstrating a deep affection and intimacy. This example encourages us to pursue a similar kind of friendship with God.
Communion with God
Mike draws on John Owen’s classic work, “Communion with God,” to explore what it means to have a relationship of delight with God. He emphasizes the importance of communicating with God, listening to his word, and responding in prayer and obedience.
The Trinity and Friendship
Mike argues that our friendship with God is not limited to Jesus, but encompasses all three members of the Trinity. He encourages us to think of the Father, Son, and Spirit as individual persons with whom we can have a direct relationship.
Practical Strategies for Deepening Friendship
So how can we cultivate a deeper friendship with God? Mike suggests starting with the basics: reading the Bible, attending church, and participating in worship. He also emphasizes the importance of repentance, recognizing that sin can disrupt our communion with God.
Overcoming Barriers to Friendship
Mike acknowledges that many of us struggle to feel close to God, often due to feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety. He encourages us to believe what God has said about his love for us, applying ourselves to understand and trust in his goodness.
By embracing the joy of friendship with God, we can experience a deeper sense of intimacy and delight in our relationship with him. As Mike reminds us, God wants us to come to him, just as we are, and pour out our hearts to him.
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