A Friend of God
Michael E. Grooms

Are you a friend of God? Abraham was called the “friend of God” because he had a faith in God that was manifested in his works.

 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. ²⁴Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
(James 2:23, 24)

Notice that it was not Abraham’s goodness that made him the friend of God. It was not his righteousness but a righteousness that was imputed to him that enabled him to have this special designation. Such righteousness does not come of our own strength or power but from a faith in God that enables Him to work His will in our lives. This is true faith.

Faith and works cannot be separated. Often people dispute the question of “faith or works” but such a discussion is fruitless because it addresses the wrong question. There is no discussion of “faith or works” in the Bible. Faith and works are married to each other. They must be addressed with the understanding that you cannot have one without the other and be pleasing to God. Faith that is not manifested in works is a dead faith. Works that are not a product of faith are vain. James says that faith without works is dead (James 2:20).  

How strong is your faith? A good indicator is to look at the fruits of your faith. Do you attend all the services of the church? Are you a worker or merely a spectator? Do you think the church exists to serve you, or that you exist to serve God in His church? Have you been instrumental is bringing someone to Christ? Are you looking for opportunities each day to save a soul? Is God top priority in your life?

Let us all strive to have a stronger faith that produces fruitful works in our lives.