Scripture speaks positively of friendships. One of my favorite verses is, “Just as lotions and fragrance give sensual delight, a sweet friendship refreshes the soul” (Proverbs 27:9 The Message).
Do you know Jesus desires and enjoys our friendship? If we choose to neglect that desire, our need for companionship will draw us elsewhere. But if we examine Paul’s words, we’ll discover a warning that, if heeded, will protect us from slipping into adultery with the world:
If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. -Colossians 3:1–2 ESV
If you’re anything like me, your thoughts have easily drifted to things on this earth. For me, it was my favorite sports team. There was a time during an important football game when the Spirit of God prompted me to pray. Despite the urgency I felt, I waited until the game was over to respond to God’s request. When I finally tried to pray, my words were stale and flat. It didn’t take long to realize what had happened. I had chosen the football game over my fellowship with God.
I was overcome with sorrow for being unfaithful to the One who’d given His life for me. It was all for the sake of something of this world—what feeds the hearts, souls, and thoughts of those who have no other source of life. My affections were clearly set on a football team when they should have been set on my obedience to God.
Now it’s hard to keep my interest up for a full game. The passion is just not there as it was back when my mind was set on the game. My affections lie with fulfilling the desires of our Lord. Loving and caring for my family, working to help others, working for our ministry, and heeding the wisdom and counsel of God are the things that have my full attention and affection.
Have you truly experienced friendship with God? I encourage you to examine your own life to see where your mind is set. Nothing is sweeter or more refreshing to the soul than His friendship.
