7 Worship Songs About The Friendship Of God (Not Just A King)

We often emphasize the Kingship of God—His power, His throne, and His glory. But Jesus introduced a radical shift in how we relate to the Almighty in John 15:15: “I no longer call you servants… Instead, I have called you friends.”

Balancing the transcendence of God (He is high and lifted up) with the immanence of God (He is near) is crucial for a healthy worship culture. Songs about friendship with God remind the church that the Creator of the stars also desires to walk with us in the cool of the day. They invite us into a relationship defined by intimacy, safety, and love.

Why These Songs Deepen Connection

We selected these songs because:

  • They are relational. They use language of closeness (“Friend,” “Father,” “Jealous”).
  • They destroy fear. It is impossible to be terrified of someone you know is your friend. These songs remove the “scary” distance of religion.
  • They are vulnerable. They allow us to let our guard down and be honest with God.

7 Songs To Walk With The Friend Of Sinners

  1. Only A Holy God – This song captures the paradox perfectly. It asks, “Who else could make me stand in awe?” and immediately answers, “And who else calls me friend?” It reminds us that His friendship is amazing precisely because He is so holy.
  2. Run To The Father – “My heart needs a surgeon, my soul needs a friend.” This lyric acknowledges that we don’t just need a boss or a judge; we need a companion who understands our pain. It paints God as the safest place to hide.
  3. Good Good Father – Friendship and Fatherhood are linked. This song resets our view of God from a distant taskmaster to a tender Parent who whispers “that I am Your own.” It is the ultimate song of belonging.
  4. How He Loves – “He is jealous for me.” This song describes a love that is fierce and personal. It uses poetic language to describe a God who isn’t just tolerating us, but who actually likes us and wants to be with us.
  5. Abide – Friendship requires time. This song is an invitation to simply “abide” or remain in His presence. It creates space to just be with Jesus without an agenda, which is the mark of true friendship.
  6. No Longer Slaves – “I’m no longer a slave to fear, I am a child of God.” Slaves have a master; children have a father. This song transitions the church from a transactional relationship with God to a familial one.
  7. Who You Say I Am – “I am chosen, not forsaken.” Friends don’t abandon friends. This anthem solidifies our identity as people who have a permanent place in God’s house and heart.

Example Relational Setlists

Setlist 1 (The Paradox)

  1. Only A Holy God – Establishes His holiness and His friendship.
  2. Who You Say I Am – Declares our standing in His house.
  3. How He Loves – Ends with a deep sense of intimacy.

Setlist 2 (Safe And Secure)

  1. Good Good Father – Focuses on His character.
  2. No Longer Slaves – Breaks the spirit of fear.
  3. Run To The Father – A response of running into His arms.

How To Use These Songs In Your Church

  • Balance the set. If you open with a high-energy song about God’s power (like Lion and the Lamb), transition into Run To The Father to show the full spectrum of His nature.
  • Read John 15. Before singing Only A Holy God, read Jesus’ words about calling us friends. It gives people permission to approach Him with confidence.
  • Create intimacy. These songs work well with stripped-back arrangements. Try leading Abide with just a piano to foster a “living room” vibe in the sanctuary.

Next Steps

Many people view God as a distant CEO. This Sunday, use Good Good Father to reintroduce them to the Dad who is fond of them, knows their name, and welcomes them home.