Verse of the Day:
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”
— John 15:13–15 (NIV)
A Friendship That Costs Everything
How many of our friendships are truly deep and sacrificial? Often, we have many acquaintances, yet very few people truly know our hearts—or allow us into theirs. Disappointment in friendships is common. Some friendships thrive on convenience, others on shared interests. But few are willing to sacrifice anything, let alone everything, for the sake of another.
In contrast, Jesus calls us friends, not merely servants. Why? Because He laid down His life for us. He shares with us the Father’s heart, revealing mysteries once hidden. He brings us into deep intimacy—not just obedience, but relationship. Yet He adds a condition: “You are my friends if you do what I command.”
This friendship is not one-sided. Though Jesus gave everything first, to be His friend requires that we die to self. Friendship with Christ costs us our pride, our plans, and sometimes even other relationships. Why? Because obedience is the price. Friendship with Jesus means aligning ourselves with His will, not just receiving His blessings.
We often look for easy friendships that give without asking much in return. But Jesus’ friendship invites us to a sacred exchange—His life for ours. He has already paid the highest price. The question is: are we willing to respond with surrendered hearts?
To be a friend of Jesus is a privilege beyond compare, but it is not casual. It is costly. Yet in that cost lies the richest intimacy and the deepest joy.
Closing Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for calling me Your friend. Thank You for laying down Your life for me. Help me respond not just with words but with obedience. Show me where I am holding back and give me the courage to surrender fully. Teach me to walk closely with You, not as a distant admirer, but as a true friend who lives to do Your will. Amen.
