He was called God’s friend.
—James 2:23
“The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend” (Exo. 33:11).
In Jehoshaphat’s Temple prayer, he said that Abraham was God’s friend (2 Chron. 20:7). In Isaiah God said it himself, calling him “Abraham my friend,” (Isa. 41:8).
“I no longer call you servants,” Jesus said to his disciples. “Instead, I have called you friends” (Jn. 15:15).
We get a ticket on that bus too: “You are my friends,” he said, “if you do what I command”
We see him as a God of judgment; and as a God of grace—a God to be revered; and a God to be adored.
But a friend? Does that seem a little too chummy? Talking, laughing. Or just sitting in silence, enjoying the company.
Friend of God. Is that awesome, or what?
God doesn’t distance himself from you;
he comes as close as you will permit.