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April 22, 1999, Thursday
Can a person be guilty by association or is it possible one
can be without guilt by association? Do friends that are loyal
offer valuable counsel and advice to you? Would you expect to
find comfort and affection from a loyal friend?
God spoke through Isaiah the prophet to give those that are
of the seed of Abraham by faith the highest title ever given
to mortals. By association we are Companions of the Lord-
"But you, Israel, My servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, you
are the descendant of Abraham My friend (Isa 41:8). Those who
are the servants of the Lord are happy He has called them His
friends. He asks us not to yield to fear even when the contest
may be sharp, for the victory is sure to be ours by Him.
Jesus counseled His close friends and disciples because He was
a friend to them that was always loyal. That advice was given
to teach them the value of their soul as compared to their body-
"And I say to you, My friends, don't be afraid of those who kill
the body, and after that have no more they can do" (Luk 12:4).
Our loyal Counselor consistently will advise us to
make wise and prudent decisions.
Paul wrote to Titus, a man that had helped Paul often. His concern
and affection for Titus was that he would make wise decisions as a
leader of the early Church and to strengthen the Believers in faith-
"To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God
the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior" (Titus 1:4). Paul comforted
him in his large responsibility to know that God would always help
him by additional measures of grace in time of need.
Let us remember who is the God that is always with us. God's
Name is Jehová Shammah. He is the God that is our Companion.
His fellowship is our joy and confidence. He is our Counselor.
When we do not have an answer in difficult times, He gives us
the answer. Jehová Shammah is our Comforter. When we are
suffering, He comforts us with with His reassurance. He gives
more grace according to His promise. Lift your hands to Him
and Praise Him today for the fact that He is the God that
is always with us, our Immanuel!
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