friendships Archives -

………….Planning April 27 Sisterhood in Christ Ladies Retreat at Olive Point Baptist …………………….. Cheryl, Shae, Diana, Cathy, Carol, Pam, Heather …………

“A sweet friendship refreshes the soul.” Proverbs 27:9

Yes, friendships do refresh the soul. My friendship circle includes family, friends from school, workplaces, and church.

However, if I am not careful, my circle of friends will be only those in my church or community who think as I do. Comfy folk. They will mostly agree with my beliefs and choices in life. Easy, breezy!

To learn more about what the Bible says about friendships, click here.

In the photo above are our Women’s Ministry Director, Cathy VanDruff, and a few of the many ladies seeking God’s direction as we plan our 24th annual DCASB Ladies’ Conference: SISTERHOOD IN CHRIST. I can tell you, it will be the best yet. Please pray for the mtg., for the attendees, and for what God would have you do… help? attend? invite someone?

Being an author and writer, some of my friendship circles include guys and gals who do not have Jesus as their main priority, if at all! Sometimes, the stories they are working on can stir my heart to pray for them quietly. But, here’s the thing. I learn from them. As I get to know them better, I grow in understanding our communities better. Hopefully, I will become not only a better writer but a better person because of their friendships.

God has been stirring my heart lately about the many women who hug and smile in church on Sunday and leave with a heavy heart and no ‘real friends’ to share their deepest thoughts. I realize not everyone will come to a ladies’ conference, but everyone needs to be encouraged. I am asking God to open our spiritual eyes and hearts each day.

So, I have to ask you. How wide is your friendship circle? Are you ready to ask God who He wants you to include? Has He pricked your heart just now with the name or face of one who needs a friend? Please, pray for me as I continue to grow and seek God’s will in all I do. Praying for you, dear friend is a joy. And, I look forward to the day when you call for that friendship coffee. Sending hugs and prayers,

Hugs,

“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falls; for he hath not another to help him up.” Bible: Ecclesiastes

Discouraged? Disillusioned? World Falling Apart?

Discouraged? Disillusioned? World falling apart at the seams?

Is your personal world changing and not necessarily for the better. How can you find peace in the midst of the storms of life?

Learn from Corrie ten Boom “Conditions are always changing; therefore, I must not be dependent upon conditions. What matters supremely is my soul and my relationship to God.”

Let’s look at a few stormy areas that may threaten your peace right now.

#1 Family relationships. When most of us were young, family structure seemed simple: Mom, Dad, kiddos and perhaps grandparents. Financial struggles, illnesses, death, divorce and separation each affect family relationships.

As I get older, I realize the domino effect when a couple divorces, especially when children are involved. Love for each of those individuals cannot just be turned on and off like a light switch. The hurt is deep and hard to carry.

Has someone in your family turned against you or disappointed you in some way? Or, let you down by their actions? How do you react? How should you react?

#2 Friendships. Do you have friends who have been close to you and are now not communicating? Perhaps you went to school together, worked or worshiped along side each other for years. Did those you trust, betray that trust. Have some turned against you and your beliefs? Are you seen now as the enemy – or see them as enemies?

How do you handle it? What can you do or say? Where do you take the hurt and pain? Disillusioned is not necessarily a bad word: read this perspective.

“Jesus did not promise to change the circumstances around us. He promised great peace and pure joy to those who would learn to believe that God actually controls all things.” Corrie ten Boom

#3 Work and Business Relationships. Most of us at some point have felt betrayed by others. Often it’s a simple misunderstanding and can be worked out. Other times, it’s one person trying to manipulate another into his/her way of doing business. What is your responsibility?

“I do not know how the Spirit of Christ performs it, but He brings us choices through which we constantly change, fresh and new, into His likeness.” Joni Erickson Tada

Someone very close to me has often said: “God is either in charge of everything, or He is in charge of nothing.” He also says regarding any issue with another person(s): “Show love – for God is Love, and protect your Christian witness above all else.” With that in mind, I leave you with a few of God’s Words to ponder.

“Yes, each of us will have to give a personal account to God.” Romans 14:12 Read the entire chapter here (click).

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1

“I am able to do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Always appreciate your comments; I am praying for each one reading this and trusting the One Who holds us in the palm of His hand!

Hugs,