Main Scripture: John 15:1-4, 6-8, 14, 16
Introduction
God does not desire a distant relationship with His children. He wants us to know Him personally and walk with Him daily. Jesus teaches that we must abide in Him, remain connected to Him, and bear fruit. Friendship with God is built through faith, obedience, prayer, worship, and living according to His Word.
1. Examples of People Who Had Friendship with God
A. Abraham – God’s Friend
Scriptures: James 2:23; Genesis 18:17-19
- Abraham believed God and obeyed Him.
- His faith and obedience built a strong friendship with God.
- God revealed His plans concerning Sodom and Gomorrah to Abraham.
Lesson: God reveals His secrets and purposes to those who walk closely with Him.
B. Moses – A Friend Who Spoke with God
Scriptures: Exodus 33:11; Numbers 12:8
- God spoke to Moses face to face as a friend.
- Moses enjoyed intimacy and fellowship with God.
- God revealed His plans for Israel through Moses.
- God fought battles on behalf of His servant.
Lesson: Friendship with God brings divine guidance and protection.
C. David – A Man After God’s Heart
Scripture: Acts 13:22
- David sought God’s direction before making decisions.
- Though he sinned, he sincerely repented.
- His deep love for God preserved his relationship with Him.
Lesson: A true friend of God quickly returns to Him through repentance.
D. Job – Faithful Through Trials
Scriptures: Job 1:8; Job 1:4-5; Job 13:15
- Job was blameless and feared God.
- He regularly offered sacrifices for his family.
- He remained faithful despite severe suffering.
Lesson: Friendship with God must remain strong even during difficult seasons.
How to Secure a Good Relationship and Friendship with God
1. Through Praise and Thanksgiving
Scriptures: Psalm 100:4; Psalm 107:1; Luke 17:15-19; Jonah 2:9-10
- Thanksgiving is the gateway into God’s presence.
- Worship reminds us of God’s goodness and faithfulness.
- The Samaritan who returned to thank Jesus was made whole.
- Jonah received deliverance while praising God.
Key Point: Thanksgiving attracts God’s continued blessings and intervention.
2. Through Prayer
Scriptures: Daniel 6:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Philippians 4:6; Jeremiah 33:3
- Daniel remained faithful in prayer despite persecution.
- Prayer keeps communication open with God.
- Instead of worrying, we should bring everything to God.
- God promises to answer those who call upon Him.
Key Point: Friendship grows through constant communication.
3. Through Reading and Meditating on God’s Word
Scriptures: Joshua 1:8-9; Psalm 119:105; James 1:22-25
- Prayer is how we speak to God.
- The Bible is how God speaks to us.
- God’s Word guides and directs our path.
- We must not only hear the Word but obey it.
Key Point: The Word of God strengthens our relationship and keeps us on the right path.
4. Through Separation from Ungodly Things
Scriptures: Daniel 1:8-10; Daniel 3:16-18; Genesis 39:11-12
Daniel
- Refused to defile himself with the king’s food.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
- Refused to worship false gods.
Joseph
- Fled from temptation to protect his relationship with God.
Key Point: Friendship with God requires holiness and a willingness to stand apart from sin.
Conclusion
Jesus said in John 15:14:
“You are my friends if you do whatever I command you.”
God is looking for people like Abraham, Moses, David, and Job—people who will trust Him, obey Him, seek Him, and remain faithful. When we cultivate a genuine relationship with God, He reveals His purposes to us, guides our steps, fights our battles, and draws us closer to Himself.