We’re all familiar with the hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” It beautifully captures the essence of our friendship with Christ:
“What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!”
Scripture
Jesus is the greatest friend we could ever hope for. He laid down His life so we could live abundantly and in a right relationship with our Heavenly Father. In John 15:14-15, Jesus says, “You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.” This friendship is available to all who follow Him!
What does friendship with Jesus look like?
Friendship is a two-way street. When you have a friend, you enjoy spending time together, sharing your thoughts, and seeking to please them. The same is true with Jesus. We spend time with Him in prayer, reading the Bible, meditating on His Word, and listening to Him. We follow His commands, not out of obligation, but because we love Him.
Friendship with Jesus does not diminish His Kingship. Jesus said, “You are my friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:14). He commands us to obey Him—we never command Him. Our obedience doesn’t earn His favor or friendship; it demonstrates our love and commitment to Him.
It’s important to balance our understanding of Jesus as both King and Friend. We should never emphasize His kingship at the expense of His companionship, nor should we emphasize His friendship to the point where we lose reverence for His lordship.
We deepen our friendship with our King through communion. We thank Him, share our burdens and hearts with Him, confess our sins, and honor Him with our obedience.
Jesus chose us and loves us so much that He died for us. He fights our battles, walks with us through trials and tribulations, and leads us to victory. What a friend we have in Jesus!
Let’s Pray:
LORD, we thank you for the best friend we could ever want in Jesus. Help us to grow our friendship with Jesus, to spend more time with Him in worship, praise, prayer, thanksgiving, sharing what’s on our hearts, and reading the Bible. Help us to have and enjoy communion with Jesus throughout the day, every day and to love Him in our obedience. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen!
As we reflect on the incredible friendship we have in Jesus, it's wonderful to keep reminders of His love close to our hearts and in our daily lives. If you’re looking for a way to carry this message with you, or to share it with others, you might find encouragement in our "Friend in Jesus" collection. Each item is designed to reflect the same message of friendship and faith that we’ve meditated on today. May these products serve as a constant reminder of the deep, abiding friendship we have in Christ.
Friend in Jesus T-Shirt Friend in Jesus Hoodie Friend in Jesus Sweatshirt
Friend in Jesus Kid's T-Shirt Friend in Jesus Toddler's T-Shirt Friend in Jesus Baby's T-Shirt
Friend in Jesus Mugs Friend in Jesus Skinny Tumbler Friend in Jesus Premium Insulated Tumbler
