DAY 19: FRIENDSHIP THAT LASTS
by Pastor Heiden Ratner
Sep. 19th, 2025
“The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant.” – Psalm 25:14
DEVOTION
Few things in life are sweeter than a lasting friendship. There’s something special about a relationship that endures through different seasons—a rare and precious gift. If you’ve been blessed with friendships like that, don’t take them for granted. Cherish them, and let your friends know how grateful you are for them.
The Bible makes it clear: God isn’t interested in shallow, surface-level relationships. He desires the real thing. Abraham is remembered as “a friend of God forever” (2 Chronicles 20:7). Moses spoke with the Lord “face to face, as one speaks to a friend” (Exodus 33:11). And in John 15, Jesus looks at His disciples and declares: “I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you” (v.15).
What incredible news—it’s possible to be called a friend of God! But did you notice the condition in Psalm 25? “The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear him.” Lasting friendship with God is rooted in reverence for Him and obedience to Him.
When we take our relationship with God seriously, He takes us seriously. When we put His ways above our own, we grow in wisdom and deeper intimacy with Him. And when we walk with Him day by day, we discover the joy of a friendship that truly lasts.
Today, take time to reflect on your friendship with God by asking yourself:
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Is my friendship with God authentic, consistent, and Spirit led?
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Or is it shallow, inconsistent, and short-lived?
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Have I received Jesus as my Lord and Savior?
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Do I regularly communicate with Him through prayer?
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Do I listen to Him through His Word?
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Do I take His commands seriously and seek to obey His leading?
Examine your answers honestly. If you notice areas where you can grow, don’t be discouraged—embrace His grace and start making changes today. God delights in walking with you as a true friend, and in revealing to You His words and His ways.
PRAYER
Father, thank You for calling me Your friend and for the privilege of walking with You. Help me take our relationship seriously, growing in reverence and obedience to You. When I’m tempted to keep things shallow, draw me deeper into authentic friendship with You. As I fear You and follow Your ways, reveal more of Your heart to me. Thank You for a friendship that truly lasts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
CHALLENGE
Take 10 minutes today to intentionally spend time with God as you would with a close friend. Talk to Him honestly in prayer, then open His Word and listen for His voice. Afterwards, thank Him for calling you His friend.
