A merciful God whose work and glory are to bring to pass the immortality life of man has not left his children in darkness. And as to the path they should follow and the things they should do to gain salvation. Rather he has decreed that salvation comes in and through the atoning sacrifice of Christ. He has sent his Spirit from age to age to bare record and to teach the truths of the plan of salvation. Those who love the Lord and desire salvation will want to learn of Christ and his mission. In all ages, and from all available sources, so that they may know how to anchor themselves to this eternal "Rock of Ages" and gain for themselves a hope of eternal life. And so let us "search the scriptures" for as our Lord himself said, "They are they which testify of me." First then from the words he spoke to Nicodemus we learn "And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but He that come down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven and as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness even so must the Son of man be lifted up. That whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned. But he that believeth not is condemned already. Because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved."

-- Free to Enjoy God -- Psalm 37:3-5

            The gospel writers spoke about children coming to Jesus, giving the impression that the young were very comfortable around Him (Matthew 18:2-3; 19:13-14). Some probably climbed onto His lap, while others perhaps sat at His feet. We can picture them asking Him lots of questions, begging to hear more parables, and whispering secrets in His ear. It isn't surprising that they would gather around Jesus; children can usually sense an some one who loves them dearly.

            Contrast this thinking of Jesus' welcoming, loving nature with the love some Christians have of God--they see Him as a judgmental taskmaster who motivates by intimidation. While it's true we are to obey His commands, we're also need to delight in Him, just as we would enjoy the company of a close friend. Many Christians fear to feel the Holy Spirit of God in their lives. We need to listen to that quite small voice with in our minds and feel the guidance and joy that God wants to put into our life.

            Do you think of God as a stern overlord who weighs good actions against bad? If so, you'll have trouble considering Him a friend. Christians who envision a harsh God devote much time and energy to proving their salvation is deserved. How much better to have a biblically accurate view--namely, that God is sovereign over the universe, but He balances authority with love. He wants His children to relax and enjoy spending time with Him.

            Taking pleasure in the Lord requires that we understand His attitude toward us: our Father loves us passionately. He sees past our faults and mistakes to the precious child He created. In fact, He loves us so much that He sent Jesus Christ to save our lives, paying the price for our sins and enable us to be with Him in heaven eternally. We have no greater friend.