OH LORD, WE NEED A FRIEND LIKE YOU

TITLE: OH LORD, WE NEED A FRIEND LIKE YOU

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 15:13-15

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 18:24, Matthew 11:28-30, Hebrews 4:15-16

INTRODUCTION:
There is no greater friend than Jesus Christ. The Bible says, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends" (John 15:13). In a world where friendships can be fragile, conditional, or fleeting, Jesus offers a friendship that is eternal, unconditional, and steadfast. We all need a friend like Jesus—one who understands our struggles, offers comfort, and leads us into everlasting life. Today, we will explore the qualities of Christ as the ultimate friend and why we need Him in our lives.

1. JESUS IS A FRIEND WHO LOVES SACRIFICIALLY

a) Jesus demonstrated His love by laying down His life for us.

b) His friendship is not based on what we can give Him but on what He has already given us.

c) True friendship involves sacrifice, and Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for our salvation.

d) His love is selfless and eternal, unlike human relationships that may fail.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, laid down His life for His sheep (John 10:11).

2. JESUS IS A FRIEND WHO UNDERSTANDS OUR STRUGGLES

a) Jesus is not a distant or indifferent friend; He understands our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15).

b) He lived on earth, faced temptations, and endured suffering—yet without sin.

c) Because He understands, He can comfort us in our time of need.

d) We can come boldly to Him with our burdens, knowing that He cares deeply.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus wept with Mary and Martha over the death of Lazarus, showing empathy and compassion (John 11:35).

3. JESUS IS A FRIEND WHO NEVER LEAVES US

a) Human friends may forsake or abandon us, but Jesus is a friend who never leaves or forsakes (Matthew 28:20).

b) His presence is with us in every season of life—whether in joy or sorrow, success or failure.

c) Jesus is a constant companion, guiding us through life’s ups and downs.

d) Even when we feel alone, He is with us, comforting and strengthening us.

e) Biblical Example: In the fiery furnace, Jesus was present with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, delivering them from harm (Daniel 3:25).

4. JESUS IS A FRIEND WHO GUIDES US IN TRUTH

a) Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).

b) His friendship leads us into the truth about life, ourselves, and God.

c) As we follow Him, He guides our steps and shows us the right path.

d) Jesus never misleads or deceives; His wisdom is perfect, and He wants the best for us.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus guided His disciples, teaching them truth and preparing them for the mission ahead (John 16:13).

5. JESUS IS A FRIEND WHO OFFERS PEACE AND REST

a) Jesus invites us to come to Him when we are weary and burdened (Matthew 11:28-30).

b) He offers rest for our souls—a peace that the world cannot give.

c) When life’s storms rage, Jesus speaks peace to our hearts, calming our fears.

d) His friendship brings stability and reassurance in times of uncertainty.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus calmed the storm on the sea, bringing peace to the terrified disciples (Mark 4:39).

CONCLUSION:
Oh Lord, we need a friend like You—one who loves us unconditionally, understands our struggles, remains with us in every season, guides us in truth, and offers us peace and rest. In a world where relationships may falter and fail, Jesus remains the friend who never disappoints. His love is sacrificial, His understanding is perfect, and His presence is constant. Let us embrace Jesus as our closest and most faithful friend, for in Him, we find the fulfilment of all our needs.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord Jesus, thank You for being a friend who loves us unconditionally.

2. Father, help me to fully embrace the friendship of Jesus in every area of my life.

3. Lord, teach me to lean on You, knowing that You understand my struggles and pain.

4. Father, let Your presence be my constant companion, especially in difficult times.

5. Lord, guide me in Your truth and keep me from the deception of the world.

6. Father, let Your peace fill my heart and calm every storm in my life.

7. Jesus, help me to trust in Your guidance as You lead me on the path of righteousness.

8. Lord, I ask that Your friendship be the anchor of my soul, keeping me grounded in faith.

9. Father, surround me with godly friends who reflect the love and character of Jesus.

10. Lord, let my life be a testimony of Your faithfulness as a true and loyal friend.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that you will experience the deep love and friendship of Jesus in a new way.

2. Jesus will be your constant companion, guiding you through life’s challenges.

3. You will never be alone, for the presence of the Lord will be with you at all times.

4. I declare that peace will reign in your heart as you walk closely with Jesus.

5. Every storm in your life will be stilled by the voice of the Lord.

6. I decree that you will receive divine guidance and clarity in every decision.

7. Your relationship with Jesus will grow stronger, bringing you deeper into His truth.

8. The Lord will surround you with friends who uplift and strengthen your faith.

9. I declare that your life will be a testimony of the power of true friendship with Christ.

10. You will walk in peace, rest, and security, knowing that Jesus is your closest friend.