The Parable of the Companion: Walking Intimately With Jesus

The Parable

A traveler journeyed through a vast and unpredictable wilderness. Along the way, he met a guide who promised to walk with him, providing direction and companionship. Initially, the traveler relied on the guide for practical help—finding food, avoiding danger, and overcoming obstacles. Yet, as their journey continued, the traveler began to notice something deeper.

The guide’s presence brought not only safety but also peace and joy. As they shared stories and dreams, the traveler realized that the journey itself was less about reaching the destination and more about growing closer to his companion. Over time, the traveler no longer sought guidance only for the path but valued the relationship itself above all else.

Reflection on Intimacy With Jesus

In My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers explores the progression of intimacy with Jesus, as illustrated in John 14:9: “Have I been so long with you, and yet hast thou not known Me?” Jesus gently leads His disciples, and us, into deeper fellowship with Him.

Before Pentecost, the disciples experienced Jesus’ power and presence in extraordinary ways—casting out demons and witnessing miracles (Luke 10:18-20). Yet, this initial relationship was just the beginning. Jesus desired a deeper intimacy, where the disciples would know Him as a friend and abide in Him as the true vine (John 15:1-4).

Chambers emphasizes that this kind of intimacy transforms us:

• We become so deeply satisfied in Christ that loneliness and self-centeredness dissolve.

• Our lives leave no impression of ourselves but reflect the unhindered work of Jesus within us.

• This intimacy produces fruit—a natural outflow of union with Him.

Practical Applications

1. Move Beyond the Surface:
   Receiving blessings and understanding Scripture are vital, but intimacy with Jesus means knowing Him personally. Spend intentional time in prayer and reflection to deepen your relationship with Him.

2. Abide in Him:
   As John 15 teaches, fruitfulness comes from abiding, not striving. Focus on staying close to Jesus, and allow His life to flow through you.

3. Let Go of Self:
   True intimacy leads to self-forgetfulness. Ask yourself, "Am I leaving an impression of Christ or of myself?" Surrender areas of self-reliance, and allow Him to work freely in and through you.

4. Embrace the Joy of Companionship:
   Recognize that intimacy with Jesus brings peace, joy, and purpose. As you walk closely with Him, you will find that His presence satisfies every longing.

Reflection Questions

1. How has your relationship with Jesus deepened over time, and what steps can you take to know Him more intimately?

2. Are there areas of self-reliance or self-focus that hinder Jesus from having His way in your life?

3. What fruit is evident in your life as a result of abiding in Christ?

Closing Thought

Intimacy with Jesus is the ultimate goal of the Christian life. As we walk closely with Him, we discover that His presence transforms us, His joy sustains us, and His life flows through us, leaving a lasting impression of His glory.

This post draws insights from Oswald Chambers’ My Utmost for His Highest, a timeless devotional that calls believers to a deeper walk with Christ.