From The Crucible (by Pastor Linda Pugsley)

© Bill McCown | www.myghcf.com

Did you ever watch the entertainment news reports and see the clamoring crowds surrounding some Hollywood star? They reach out and desperately try to touch them as they pass by or swoon in shock if the star suddenly stops and speaks to them or signs an autograph on their shirt! They go nuts it seems. But is that celebrity their friend? Is he or she someone that knows them by name or calls them for a dinner gathering to just enjoy their company? Hardly! Fans express that much love, that much admiration, leaning toward adoration, for complete strangers. And yet the King of Kings and Lord of Lords and creator of the universe calls us friends! Think on that guys – God actually wants to be your friend... the most famous being of all has chosen you out of the crowd. Even though He knows the worst about you, He still desires to be on the top of your "A-list". And why is that? Because He knows if you let Him come inside you when He knocks on the door of your heart, it'll be the best thing you ever do. Only with Him inside can you change and be with Him forever. Without Him, we remain unrighteous and have no access to Him here or in the final kingdom of God.

But, just as in an earthly friendship, it cannot be forced. You either have constant contact and fellowship that builds your friendship or you don't. It’s hard to believe but God wants you to kick back, relax and enjoy a relationship with Him. Boy, talk about having friends in high places! (John 15:13-15) Endure the fire...it's producing pure gold!

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