Living in a Way That Pleases God, Chapter Twelve

WHAT kind of person would you choose as a friend? Very likely you would want the company of someone who shares your views, interests, and values. And you would be drawn to one who has fine qualities, such as honesty and kindness.

Throughout history, God has chosen certain humans to be his close friends.  For example, Jehovah called Abraham his friend.  (Isaiah 41:8; James 2:23) God referred to David as "a man agreeable to my heart" because he was the kind of person Jehovah loves.  (Acts 13:22)  And Jehovah viewed the prophet Daniel as "someone very desirable." -Daniel 9:23.

Why did Jehovah consider Abraham, David, and Daniel to be his friends?  Well, he told Abraham:  "You have listened to my voice."  (Genesis 22:18)  So Jehovah draws close to those who humbly do what he asks of them.  "Obey my voice," he told the Israelites, "and I will become your God, and you yourselves will become my people." (Jeremiah 7:23) If you obey Jehovah, you too can become his friend! 

Next time: JEHOVAH STRENGTHENS HIS FRIENDS

From the Book: What Does the Bible Really Teach? 2005 and 2006