May 2, 1999, Sunday

Would you like to have a friend that no matter how busy or

difficult a time, he would always receive you with comforting

words? Would he be a better friend if he could actually do

something about the matter that you asking?

Luke tells us that Jesus had decided to go a remote region for

a place and time of rest. However many followed Him when they

recognized who He was. Yet in the untimely interruption, kind

words were the reception by Christ and a welcome they received-

"And the people, when they knew, followed Him: and He received

them, and spoke to them about the Kingdom of God" (Luke 9:11a).

Christ always is receptive to our requests and accepts us with

comforting words that bring hope and healing.

The Writer to the Hebrews tells us that since we have a help

and friend at all times and in every need, we should go to

Him without any doubts, fears, or reservations, and boldly-

"Let us therefore draw near with confidence to the throne of

grace, that we may also receive mercy and may find grace to

help in time of need" (Heb 4:16). To understand that we are

in need of mercy and grace is why He accepts us readily and

is our Advocate, the best friend one can have. He is ready

to help us not only with daily needs but in trying times.

Jesus would not tell us to come to Him with our requests if

He wasn't prepared to welcome us; He won't disappoint you-

"Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find;

knock, and it shall be opened to you" (Mat 7:11). An earnest

prayer of sincerity continues even if the answer doesn't come

at first or immediately, because the petitioner is searching to

know and do God's will. One diligently endeavors to continue

in his own daily efforts to please God and be in agreement

with Him. That process moves the hands of God to act on the

behalf of that one who has been faithful to believe that He

is a rewarder to those that diligently seek Him.

Let us remember who is our Best Friend. God's Name is

Jehová Adonai. He is the God who accepts us as we are

without any modifications. He is the God who will never fail

you nor forget you. He will never leave you or let you down.

Lift your hands to your Best Friend. Praise Him and thank

Him for all the blessings of His acceptance and friendship.