Jan. 19, 2008 - Once Friend Poor, Now Friend Rich
Once Friend Poor, Now Friend Rich
I remember just a few years ago thinking that I had so few friends. Oh I had dozens of acquaintances, but very few friends. I poured everything into my family, but I did not have a meaningful network of support outside my famly. I began praying that the Lord would bring godly women into my life and help me to develop lasting relationships. Now, as I look back over the past few years, I realize that he has answered that prayer, over and over.
Once I began teaching a homeschool writing co-op, I made several new friends. And now this year, I also took a step of faith and began a Keeper's of the Faith club for homeschoolers. It has been a wonderful Christian fellowship opportunity for moms and children alike. God has blessed me over and over with new friends, real friends. Friends that I can call on, friends that I can confide in, and friends that I care about.
Another unexpected source of friends has come from joining a Christian Writer's Club. One woman in particular has been a particular encouragement to me.
I started a "Little Ladies" weight loss club this fall and new relationships have come from that source, as well.
The list goes on and on. Friends through attending quilting retreats, friends through singing on the worship team at church, friends through political activism, and joining a ladies tea guild.
The change from being friend poor to friend rich has been gradual. And along the way, I am learning how to be a friend. I've made many mistakes, but from my experience, here's what is working:
- Pray for God to bring godly women into your life.
- Take a risk. Put yourself out there. Start or join a group with similar interests.
- Ask Questions and remember to Listen!
- Invest yourself. Stay in touch at least monthly!
- Don't offer advice too much. (I struggle with this one!)
- Share yourself. This can be risky, but real friendship will only develop when you are REAL and move beyond the superficial niceties.
- When feelings are hurt, don't let the sun go down on differences. Always take the initiative to work things out.
Dear Lord, I thank you dearly for the many friends that you have brought into my life. Lord please help me to continue to grow and learn from the godly women that you have brought into my life and allow me to be a mentor to those you choose. Amen.
Comments
Jan. 21, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
Beautiful, Sallie! And good advice, to boot!
I've been there, too, and feel that God is blessing me in the same ways lately. You are among those blessings! So glad to know you!
Love,
Sherry
P.S. You should work this blog up into an article! Just add in some "story" to go with it.
