What kind of friend are you?

TODAY'S READING: James 4:1-10
Have you ever seen or been a part of a group of friends who gossip about each other and talk about each other in unkind ways? Or maybe you have seen someone who takes advantage of his friends so he can get something from them. I have even seen someone go behind her friend's back to undermine a relationship.
These things happen when we are better friends with the world than with God. When our motives are wrong, so are our desires. If we choose to put our desires before God's we will act ungodly towards others.
Above all, God wants us to be His friend. But not just a casual friend; He wants us to be a faithful friend. The Holy Spirit that lives in a Christian is jealous when we are unfaithful. When we have attitudes, behaviors, words, or thoughts that betray God, He is hurt deeply.
When we treat our earthly friends in unkind ways it is almost always a reflection of how we are treating God. No matter how hard we try to hide it, eventually our true self will show in our lives.
If we really want to be a friend of God we must be faithful to Him. If we want to be faithful we must be humble. In order to be humble we must admit that we need God. When we are willing to admit our dependence on God our attitudes will change and God will be able to shape our character. Humility will change our motives and allow us to draw closer to God. We will truly regret the wrongs we have done and it will be easier to resist the Devil.
Are you a faithful friend who puts others first? Or are you putting yourself before others and allowing evil desires to control your life? When you look at your life and relationships, what kind of friend are you?

shine!
Jason