God loves everyone. That doesn’t mean God approves of everyone.

There are “those that are his,” ones who “depart from iniquity” (2 Timothy 2:19); and there are those who “refuse” and “reject” him (Hebrews 12:25).

Those who submit to God’s will are called his “friends” (James 2:23; cf. John 15:14). Those who seek friendship with the world are called his “enemies” (James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17).

Being friends with God is not difficult (1 John 5:3; Proverbs 10:29)–- especially when compared to the difficulty of being his enemy (Proverbs 13:15b). Being friends with God pays richly (Romans 8:17; Titus 3:7), while being an enemy of God is costly (Matthew 16:26).

So does God really love everyone? Indeed. He sent his Son to die for us all (John 3:16; Hebrews 2:9). Is God friends with everyone? No.

God’s enemies outnumber is friends (Matthew 7:13-14).

Friend, or enemy? Which are you? _______

by Rick Kelley

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