I Am A Friend Of God
Israel Houghton
A Divine Friendship: Understanding 'I Am A Friend Of God' by Israel Houghton
Israel Houghton's song 'I Am A Friend Of God' is a powerful declaration of the personal relationship between the individual and the divine. The lyrics begin with a sense of awe and wonder, as the singer questions their worthiness of God's attention. The lines 'Who am I that you are mindful of me / That you hear me, when I call' reflect a deep humility and amazement at the idea that an omnipotent being would care for and listen to a mere human. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of this divine friendship.
The chorus, 'I am a friend of God / He calls me friend,' is a simple yet profound affirmation of this relationship. It underscores the idea that God is not just a distant, impersonal force but a personal friend who is intimately involved in the lives of individuals. This concept is both comforting and empowering, offering a sense of belonging and significance. The repetition of the chorus serves to reinforce this message, making it a central theme of the song.
The bridge further elevates the song's spiritual intensity by addressing God as 'God Almighty / Lord of Glory.' These titles highlight God's majesty and power, making the idea of being called 'friend' even more astonishing. The bridge serves as a reminder of God's greatness, contrasting with the personal and intimate nature of the friendship described in the chorus. This juxtaposition creates a rich, multi-layered understanding of the relationship between the divine and the individual, making 'I Am A Friend Of God' a deeply moving and spiritually uplifting song.