Verse 1:
You know all about me
The good and the bad
You know when I rise and fall
You see my beginning
You stand at the end
And yet You remain
Faithful to say I'm Your friend
Chorus:
Friend there will never be a friend
As dear to me as You
There will never be another
Closer than a brother
Friend always worth the wait
As faithful as the day
You say we are friends
Woh woh woh
Bridge:
Ev'ry time You call me
I receive Your healing
Ev'ry time You call me friend
Oh ev'ry time ev'ry time
Ev'ry time You call me
I receive Your healing
Ev'ry time You call me friend
Friend Video
Friend Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Friendship is a beautiful and precious gift from God. It is a bond that transcends time and distance, providing comfort, support, and companionship. In the song "Friend" by Israel Houghton, we are reminded of the incredible friendship we have with God, who is always there for us, guiding us, and loving us unconditionally. This article will delve into the meaning of the song, discuss the inspiration behind it if available, and explore the Bible verses that relate to its powerful message.
I. The Meaning of the Song "Friend":
The song "Friend" conveys the deep and personal relationship that we can have with God. It emphasizes the faithfulness and unwavering love that God has for us, showcasing Him as the ultimate friend who knows us intimately and stands by us through every season of life. The lyrics express the belief that there is no other friend as dear and close as God, who is always worth the wait and remains faithful to us.
II. Inspiration or Story Behind the Song:
Israel Houghton is known for his heartfelt and sincere worship music, often drawing inspiration from his own relationship with God and moments of revelation in his life. It is likely that "Friend" was birthed out of a desire to express the profound connection and friendship he has with God, and to encourage others to experience the same.
III. Bible Verses That Relate to the Song's Message:
The lyrics of "Friend" align with various Bible verses that highlight the faithful and loving nature of God as our ultimate friend. Let's explore some of these verses:
1. John 15:15 (NIV):
"I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you."
This verse speaks directly to the idea of friendship with God. Jesus, in His own words, acknowledges His followers as friends rather than mere servants. He shares His Father's teachings with them, emphasizing the profound intimacy and trust that exists between Him and His disciples.
2. Proverbs 18:24 (NIV):
"One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."
This verse reminds us of the importance of having reliable and trustworthy friends. However, it also highlights that God is the ultimate friend who sticks closer to us than a biological sibling. He is ever-present, dependable, and will never leave us nor forsake us.
3. James 2:23 (NIV):
"And the scripture was fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,' and he was called God's friend."
Abraham, known as the father of faith, was not only considered righteous by God but was also referred to as His friend. This verse showcases the close relationship Abraham had with God, based on his unwavering faith and trust in Him. It serves as a reminder that we too can have a deep friendship with God through our faith in Him.
4. Psalm 25:14 (NIV):
"The Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them."
This verse emphasizes the intimacy that exists between God and those who fear and reverence Him. It suggests that those who have a genuine relationship with God as their friend are privy to His guidance, wisdom, and the promises of His covenant.
IV. The Impact and Importance of the Song "Friend":
"Friend" by Israel Houghton serves as a poignant reminder of the incredible friendship we have with God. In a world where friendships can sometimes be temporary or superficial, this song encourages us to find solace in the unwavering love and companionship of our Heavenly Father. It reminds us that God knows us intimately, accepts us as we are, and remains faithful to us through every season of life.
The song's impact lies in its ability to draw listeners into a deeper understanding of God's character and His desire for a personal relationship with each of us. By expressing the idea that there is no friend as dear and close as God, it encourages believers to seek His presence and to cultivate a genuine friendship with Him.
V. Conclusion:
"Friend" by Israel Houghton is a powerful song that celebrates the deep and personal friendship we can have with God. Its lyrics remind us of the faithfulness and love that God extends to us, emphasizing that He is always there for us as a friend who knows us intimately. The song's message aligns with various Bible verses that highlight the intimate relationship God desires to have with His children. As we embrace the truth of this song, may we be encouraged to nurture our friendship with God and to lean on His unwavering presence in every aspect of our lives.
