Friendship and Fellowship

Note: This is one of those posts that has been setting in the draft folder for months waiting for me to get up the courage to post...

For several years now, I have been resistant to actively seeking out friends. I was filled with excuses from head to toe about why I didn't have time. I cheated myself out of some opportunities to develop deep meaningful relationships. I substituted virtual relationships in many was for face to face contact. I became a recluse slipping in and out of social situations. Many times, I chose not to accept invitations because I thought that I couldn't be away from children or my spouse. Maybe, I wanted to avoid the sting of loss. Friendships are an investment and sometimes that investment may leave you broken. I didn't want to risk loss.

Recently, I began to accept the invitation to take the risk into friendship again. During this time some new friends have moved, one to Chicago and one to Germany, and one to Mexico. Many are at home when I am at work. Somehow despite it all, God in his providence is beginning to grow deep, meaningful relationships in my life again.

I am thankful for those women who were willing to commit to pray over me as a dealt with a minor health issue. My heart was so encouraged when I received a text from my friend in Chicago asking how my follow up appointment went. I, too, find myself thinking of them often and bringing them before Jesus and thanking Him for his provision.These friends are gently speaking the Truth with love into my life in a way that hasn't been done in years.

It all started with acce[ting the invitation. I am so thankful for my wonderful friends.This week take the time to invite someone to coffee or lunch, you may meet a new friend.