John_15

Scripture

 

John 15:14-15

 

You are my friends if you do what I command you. 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.

 

Observation-What does it say?

 

In this chapter, Jesus is talking about the importance of relationship and staying connected with Him. He says if we don't stay connected, like any branch or flower cut from the vine, we will wither and die spiritually. But, if we stay connected, we will bear much fruit and we can ask anything and He will answer. How do we stay connected? I like how Matthew Henry describes it as, "... a dependence upon Christ and communion with him, habitually to adhere to him, and actually to derive supplies from him." I need the supplies only He can give: power, faith, love, grace, wisdom. And if that's not enough, there's more! Jesus goes on to say that if we follow His commands, if we press in and grow in relationship with Him, He calls us friend and allows us to know His business and to join with Him in accomplishing it. 

 

Understanding-What does it mean?

 

Two definitions for friend: 1) one attached to another by affection or esteem, and 2) a favored companion. How amazing and humbling is that - that Jesus would call me His friend! The idea of being so connected to Jesus that He is my favored companion and He would view me with affection and esteem brings me to tears. 

 

Life Application

 

Jesus, thank you so much for Your love and Your patience with me. You ask me to adhere to You and in return You promise me great rewards. Help me to remember that only You are the source of my strength and without You I can do nothing. I want to grow closer to You, learn Your business, and be called Your friend. 

 

-Debbie Dunn