Shri Satya Sai “God Is The Only Real Friend”

“God Is The Only Real Friend”

Can fleeting connections on the face of the planet, be it within the family circle or beyond, be termed as ‘Relationships’? Deluded he is, man often claims to such connections, claiming them to be real. How often he gets it wrong, that sooner or later a gentle tap comes from the Greater Heaven, telling him that, ‘He and He Alone Is The Real Friend, and None Else’. In the case of Ms Vibha, she was infinitely  blessed to hear the same from The Lord Supreme, Who chose to educate her with the message in person. Read on an interesting episode as narrated by Ms Vibha Gajjar from Nasik, alumna at SSSIHL, from the batch of 1978-81. This article is extracted from the 95th Birthday release, Sai Samipyam, by the 1978-81 batch of alumnae at SSSIHL, Anantapur Campus.

“Every child born into the world brings a message from God that he is not yet discouraged with man”. – Rabindranath Tagore.

After graduation, I did my B. Ed and worked as a teacher in Swami’s Primary school. I was thrilled and grateful to be back; it was like a homecoming. To be again near Swami’s physical presence and have His Darshans, one could ask for nothing more. Being a teacher at Swami’s Institution was a different experience altogether. Swami loved His students of Primary School, and it was a treat to watch Him interact with them.

God is Love, and I was one of the lucky recipients of His Love.

During that time, Swami had graciously agreed to perform the wedding of a friend of mine in the interview room. Swami had asked him to give Him the number of guests that would be attending. My friend graciously included me in that list. On the day of the wedding, everyone was ushered in, with Swami coming in last as usual. All were seated, and Swami too sat in His chair.

He surveyed the room, looking at everyone who had come in. When His ‘gaze’ fell on me, He immediately asked, “Tum idhar kya karta hai?” (What are you doing here?)

I was taken aback, caught unawares. My heart sank. “Kya rishta hai?” (How are you related?). I feebly muttered, “Friend, Swami.”

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

God Is The Only Real Friend: A Bond Beyond All Limits

My friend too said the same thing. Swami started emphatically nodding His Head and said: “God Is The Only Real Friend; no one (else) is a friend. When there is money everyone is a friend; when there is no money, no one is a friend.” That is something (this priceless message) I have never forgotten. Well, He kindly let me stay for the ceremony. He has been my  Friend and my Confidant all my life; nothing is ever hidden from Him.

In this world, people form countless relationships. Friends come into our lives, share moments of joy and sorrow, and often become an important part of our journey. Yet, human relationships are subject to change. Circumstances, distance, misunderstandings, and the passage of time can alter even the strongest bonds. Amidst these changing realities, God Is The Only Real Friend who remains constant, loving, and ever-present through every phase of life.

Shri Sathya Sai Baba often reminded devotees that God’s love is pure, selfless, and unconditional. Unlike worldly friendships that may depend on personal interests or expectations, divine friendship seeks nothing in return. God stands beside every individual, guiding, protecting, and uplifting them even when they are unaware of His presence. This sacred companionship continues through success and failure, happiness and sorrow, providing strength when all other support seems to fade.

Life presents many challenges that test a person’s faith and courage. During such moments, people may feel lonely or misunderstood. However, those who turn inward and remember the Divine discover an inexhaustible source of comfort. Through prayer, devotion, and sincere faith, one realizes that God Is The Only Real Friend who listens without judgment and responds with infinite compassion. His guidance may come through intuition, inspiring words, or unexpected help arriving at the right moment.

Sai Baba taught that true spirituality begins when one develops a personal relationship with God. This relationship is not based on fear but on love and trust. Just as a close friend understands unspoken feelings, God knows every thought, hope, and struggle within the heart. He patiently waits for individuals to seek Him and experience the joy of divine companionship. When faith deepens, the devotee feels protected and confident, knowing that God’s presence accompanies every step of the journey.

The lives of countless devotees demonstrate how divine grace transforms difficulties into opportunities for growth. Many have experienced miraculous help, inner peace, and renewed strength through sincere devotion. Such experiences reinforce the truth that God Is The Only Real Friend who never abandons His devotees, regardless of their circumstances. Even when life appears uncertain, faith in God provides clarity and purpose.

Shri Sathya Sai Baba emphasized the practice of love, service, and remembrance of God. By cultivating noble thoughts and serving others selflessly, one becomes closer to the Divine. Every act of kindness becomes an expression of gratitude toward the eternal Friend who resides in all beings. This understanding helps remove feelings of separation and fosters unity, compassion, and peace.

The spiritual path becomes easier when one places complete trust in God’s wisdom. Human beings may not always understand why certain events occur, but faith teaches them to accept life with patience and courage. Through every experience, God guides the soul toward greater understanding and spiritual growth. Therefore, God Is The Only Real Friend whose love remains unchanged through all circumstances and whose companionship leads one toward lasting happiness and liberation.

As devotees reflect on Sai Baba’s teachings, they are encouraged to strengthen their connection with the Divine through prayer, meditation, and selfless service. In doing so, they discover a friendship that transcends time and space—a friendship rooted in eternal love. This timeless message continues to inspire seekers across the world, including readers of Devotional India, reminding them that the greatest treasure in life is the constant presence of God. Through the teachings shared on Devotional India, devotees can deepen their faith and experience the joy of divine friendship that never fades.