Do you remember the name of your best friend in elementary school? I do…his name was Shawn. There are so many names that flood my mind when I think of my childhood friends. Shawn was my BEST friend. We were always together, and we talked about everything.

The neat thing about a best friend is you can only have one. Typically, you or I would protect that friendship, and it’s not a sharing kinda thing. Shawn was my best friend, and I didn’t really share that friendship with anyone else. Over time, though, we began hanging out with different crowds and our “best” friendship slowly reduced to an acquaintance.

But, I’d love to tell you about my best friend since I was 15 years old, and I’m willing to share Him.

Our friendships change over time because of our interests, where we live, and a million other circumstances. But, my new best friend has held that position with me since 1993. His name is Jesus. He is the best friend I could ever ask for. If you think I’m simplifying our relationship, then let’s take a look at what he says in His word.

John 15:12-15, “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.”

There were times growing up that I needed Shawn to encourage or help me, but he couldn’t be everywhere every time. Those would have been unrealistic expectations for Shawn. But my new best friend loves me so much that He is there all the time to pick me up when I fall and encourages me to get back up. He also cheers for me in the good times.

I’ve got a story to tell you about my best friend…

I was in my car on my way to work while dealing with a difficult situation in my life. It was weighing on me heavy, and I didn’t know where to turn. It got to the point where anxiety began to kick in. At that very moment, Jesus jumped in the passenger seat and began to speak to me — a song came on the radio that I had never heard before called “See The Light” by TobyMac. Here are the words my best friend said to me.

I know this road is gettin’ hard
I heard you say it’s overwhelming
I said I’d never be too far
And I meant that from the heart

I see the mountain gettin’ higher
I see it stackin’ up against you
I always said you were a fighter
But you’ve got your doubts tonight

But I’m here to remind you
It don’t matter where you come from
I know we can get through this
It might feel it’s been so long
But we keep on keepin’ on (keepin’ on)
It might feel like an uphill climb
Always some kind of battle (battle)
But you got more than you on your side

Jesus knew what I needed and was there like the bestest friend I could ever ask for. What’s cool about my best friend is that He can be yours, too. All you have to do is ask.

This article has undergone ministry review and approval.