These are our people. They are not friends, they are family. "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 27.17 They are the ones that are open to crazy adventures. Whether that's road tripping across Montana and Wyoming, planning all the surprise parties, bus caroling in Christmas sweaters, or driving across the city during a winter storm and COVID. They are the ones you have memories of crazy adventures with. Such as bus Bible trivia, Christmas lights touring, visitation with not-the-safest-driver, impromptu chip runs, and perfectly timed Star Wars NYE showings. They are the ones you can tell anything to. And, even if you haven't seen each other in so many months, you can pick back up where you left off like its nothing. They are the ones you would call at 2 in the morning. You know they have got your back. They support you when it really matters, and would do it without question. They are the ones you know are on your team. They'll tell you when you are being stupid, but are also there to encourage. They care for and about you. They are the ones that know you. Not about you. Not think they know you. Not know you through other people who think they know you. But they have taken the time to get to know the real you. They know what makes you angry, sad, happy, and disappointed. They know what you care about. They know what motivates you. They know your heartbreak. They know your story. They are the ones that you'd absolutely do the same for them. There are waves of comfort that comes from moments with these people and that continue to splash over you even after they are gone. The Lord has given the gift and comfort of human relations, but not at the replacement of Himself. Nothing, absolutely nothing, can compare or replace His presence. I can look back on my limited experience and recall time after time where His waves of comfort would overwhelm my heart. Moments of utter failure and betrayal of any human relationship, yet His presence was the greatest and only comfort I needed. Honestly, it was such a sweet time of reflection this morning. I read in Psalm 46 this morning and each time I read verse 10 it hits deep. "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." I remember reading that verse the first time it meant something to ME. I remember experiencing His presence in a personal way for the first time. Many, many moments similar are tucked away. Little nuggets of His care and love for me. The Creator of heaven and earth cares about me. He is the best friend I could ever ask for. He already knows me better than I know myself, yet He desires a relationship with me. He hears at 2 am when I call His name. He doesn't miss a word when I pour my heart out. No concern, worry, or fear could stand to the power of His presence. If you are seeking human relationships to fill the void of a relationship with Him, you will always come up wanting. He is the God of all comfort (2 Cor. 1.3), you can't find it apart from Him. That's my God and I hope you can say the same. Find your people. Love them hard. Be their person. Remember His presence.
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Lizzy parkerMarriage.
Motherhood. Ministry. Missions. Archives
January 2023
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