Faithful Friends
Tuesday, January 11, 2011 at 7:00AM MAD21 By Pat
I talked to a good friend of mine this morning. It was really nice to laugh and chat, but especially to share our feelings, opinions and insights on the most important issue of our lives-our faith. He is struggling with many personal problems, carrying loads he never dreamed he would have to carry. I also struggle with issues and situations I didn't foresee, as most of us do.
My friend and I have very different feelings and theories about many aspects of God and faith; why we are allowed to struggle, God's sovereignty, just to name a couple. I don't always agree with him, as I am sure he does not always agree with me, and yet as I walked away from the phone this morning, I felt enlightened and uplifted. I will certainly think about some of the things we discussed as I always do when I have talked to a friend. I value his insights.
I realize that it's often during times like these, something as simple as a chat with a friend, that God speaks to us. He uses us to learn from one another and to grow with one another. This particular friend makes me realize that perhaps sometimes my views are a little too simplistic, and that maybe I need to do a little more studying in God's word. On the other hand, maybe I brought to him the realization that sometimes he might be just a little to analytical, and that he thinks too much! And as we toss these thoughts and feelings about and add generous helpings of laughter throughout the conversation, it occurs to me that we are growing in the Lord, in our faith. Sharing His greatness in simple ways such as this can and does surely bring about profound growths and deeper truths.
The Holy Spirit moves and works in many ways, and this is one of them. It makes us better Christians and more effective workers in His kingdom when we not only keep ourselves open to the views of others, but share ours as well. I may never agree with the opinions and views of some of my friends, and they might never agree with mine. But one thing that we all can agree with is that God is an awesome God, and He places us in each other's lives for a reason. We all agree that the strong cord of prayer unites us in a way that cannot be explained... we feel it. We need it! Each of my friends is unique and special in his or her own way, and very different, just as it should be.
A dinner table would be mighty boring if it was laden down with bowls and platters all containing the same food item. We need different flavors to round out our meal and make it interesting and tasty. In the same manner, each of my friends brings something different to the table of my life, and I am so grateful. I pray that whether I end up on their table as a roast or a radish, I am able to add to the flavor of their faith whatever God chooses it to be.
"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord." (1 Corinthians 12:4-5)
Pat is a good friend who is passionate about her faith and her family. She works from home supporting a family business, and loves to read, write and garden when she can, and spends every spare moment with her grandkids.
Devotions, Faith, Friendship, Growing in Devotions
Reader Comments (3)
I love what you're describing here, Pat. When two or more people can appreciate the others and their views, it encourages and strengthens us greatly. We can balance each other out. Thanks for the great reminder!
Very insightful Pat(sy). And, I for one am so glad to be among your friends. You are a blessing and please keep up the good words.
Well said, my friend, and thanks for sharing with me. I feel priviledged to know you and be a part of the "growing" process, as well as drawing from God, through you. Talk again soon....