We've all experienced being called the wrong name, whether at Starbucks or by a coworker. Despite my name being Rusty, I've been called Randy, Dusty, Rudy, and even Wesley. Often, it's not just the name but what people think about us that sticks. They might label us based on our past jobs, relationships, or personal struggles. Over time, these external labels can shape how we see ourselves.

That's why our series, "Friend of God," is so important. When you receive Jesus, you become a friend of God, as the Apostle John tells us, and that's the only identity that matters. We're exploring this through weekend messages, a 40-day devotional, and a daily podcast from Simple Faith. Understanding our true identity as friends of God can transform us. Today, we’ll dive into how we often identify ourselves by our pain, and how changing our interpretation of experiences, as Viktor Frankl did, can lead to a more meaningful life. Mark Batterson emphasizes that our explanations of experiences are more crucial than the experiences themselves. Let’s explore how viewing pain through the lens of God’s friendship can redefine our lives.

Thank you for listening. For more, visit CrossroadsChristian.org and PastorRustyGeorge.com, and check out our podcast, Simple Faith with Rusty George.