There’s a new movie out called “Friends with Benefits.” I haven’t seen it and don’t plan to. The title highlights a new trend in our society among young people, who are friends, and are sexually involved with one another. They are friends “with benefits.” A new definition of casual sex. A further devaluing of the gift of sex as God designed it between a committed husband and wife. Sex is seen simply as a side benefit to a friendship. What a lie from The Enemy.

In high school I had a very good friend who I worked with at Casa Bonita in Tulsa. We lived in the same neighborhood and attended Nathan Hale High School. She was an attractive girl and fun to be around. We studied together, worked together and spent time together talking. Her mother had an alcohol problem and I tried to support her through that time. One evening I really wanted to give her a kiss on the cheek, but I didn’t. You know why? Too scared I’d be rejected? No. Get slapped? Possibly. As I mentioned Sunday, I don’t like getting slapped! No – I didn’t kiss her then or ever – not because I didn’t want to – but because I knew it would ruin our friendship. I would lose something much greater in exchange for momentary pleasure.

We see it happen every day. People exchange something greater for something less. As I was spending time with the Lord this morning reading His Word – developing my friendship with Him –I read these words from Psalm 103:2-5:

“Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits –
who forgives all your sins, and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love
and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”

Now that’s a Friend with benefits! In fact, that’s quite a list of benefits for maintaining a relationship with our Heavenly Father, through His Son Jesus in the Power of The Holy Spirit. I’d encourage you to read that scripture over again and ponder the blessings we have in Jesus. He’s a friend that sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24b).

On Wednesday evenings beginning Sept. 14; I’ll be teaching a course called, “Becoming a Contagious Christian.” I hope you will join me. It’s all about learning to be a true friend by sharing Christ’s love with others in a totally natural way. You’ll learn many helpful “tools” in helping you make a difference for Christ in this life. Who are you living for anyway? Yourself or others? Participant Guides will be available in the Plaza at a special discount price of $5 soon. It’s going to be a great Fall together!

Blessings –

Your Friend in Christ,

Pastor Mark

PS – Please be in prayer about being a Whiz Kids tutor this year at First Church. We’re over half way to our goal of having 12 full time tutors! I’ve signed up as a substitute as well. Training is this Tuesday evening at 5:30 at First Church. Sign up this Sunday!