Christ has made us friends of God

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When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. ... So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.
-Romans 5:6-8,11 NLT

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God's pursuit of the heart of mankind is such an amazing story that rings so clearly throughout all of the bible. From the very beginning we read of how God befriended his creation in the garden. In Genesis we read of God talking and walking with Adam. The stories of Abraham, Moses and David are wrapped in beautiful and divine friendships with the Lord. And when God came to earth he chose to surround himself with close friends as he ministered.

What do you think of when you hear the word "friend"? Perhaps you go back to childhood memories of the one buddy that you spent so much time with? Or maybe you think of the person that you can tell anything to? The word friend is such a warm one. These verses tell us that God wants to be our friend. I think that this perspective has the potential to change the way that we pray. No longer are we slaves petitioning the master but people sharing hearts with our friend.

Help us Lord to embrace your friendship. Teach us to be good friends as we share our hearts with you in prayer.

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