Friends

 

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about friendship and what a blessing from God it really is.

I've been noticing that the novels, movies, shows, and even music I'm drawn to the most display people who have incredible friendships.  There is something absolutely compelling about a duo, trio, group, or band of people who love and serve one another and prioritize living their lives together as a team.

 

As I sift through my memories of how friendships in my own life started, I am reminded of just how amazing God is and how faithful He is to answer prayers for great, God-fearing friendships.  The other day a friend and her husband stood on my doorstep and, like a lightning bolt had exploded in my brain, I recalled praying for friends exactly like them back in lonelier times.  That prayer wasn't answered instantaneously then, but it is incredible to be finally seeing the fruition of those prayers.

 

Another one of my dearest friends is in my life because of the Lord's leading.  I was at a picnic, visiting wtih a bunch of friends and family and I felt God leading me to go to talk to a gal and her husband who were by themselves in the corner.  Pregnant, tired, and wanting to visit with a favorite relative from out of town, I didn't feel like making a new friend.  But after a few promptings by the Holy Spirit, I went over and introduced myself.  We had tons of things in common, we were both pregnant with our #4's, now pictured here in all their adorable-ness, and both of us had 2B/2G families.  Needless to say, she became an instant friend.  Over recent years we have done so much together: swapping kids, Bible studies, women's retreats, fondue dates, craft nights, clothing drives, developing and leading Pray and Play, raising money for Africa, PJ parties, Book Club, de-cluttering or dieting challenges, etc. etc.  I often think how empty my life would be if God hadn't stepped in and ordered me not to be shy in that moment when our paths crossed.  I'd be missing out on one of the best friendships of my life, and so would my kids!

 

Because I firmly believe in God's sovereignty, I know that every friend he has brought into my life is there for a reason.  Not all have been "easy" friendships.  But they have all taught me something and they all are precious for different reasons. 

 

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

⁹ Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
¹⁰ If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up.
¹¹ Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
¹² Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

 

 

A friend is one who knows you and loves you just the same.

-Elbert Hubbard-

I'm thankful today for each of the friends God has given!