When I was in my 30's I read a book on how to be a friend. (Who does that?) Me, because I was damaged goods and clueless in the friend department.
As I was growing up through elementary and jr. high school I was literally kicked out of the group of friends I hung out with. It certainly was a painful experience for a young kid. I hung out by myself and the insecurities in my mind grew like weeds.
When I came to Christ I read about the family of God.
Hmmm, how do I get connected to this family?
I wanted to be close to another person. Someone I could hang out with. And someone I could have fellowship with. But I didn't know how to do this.
So, that's when I read a book on how to be a friend.
As I was growing up through elementary and jr. high school I was literally kicked out of the group of friends I hung out with. It certainly was a painful experience for a young kid. I hung out by myself and the insecurities in my mind grew like weeds.
When I came to Christ I read about the family of God.
Hmmm, how do I get connected to this family?
I wanted to be close to another person. Someone I could hang out with. And someone I could have fellowship with. But I didn't know how to do this.
So, that's when I read a book on how to be a friend.
The book offered a simple principle...If you want a friend then be a friend.
"In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you. Matthew 7:12 NASB
And so that's what I did. I reached out to others and I included them into my world. And for the record, it wasn't easy to come out of my shell, in fact, it still isn't. However, I am part of a family, the Body of Christ, and because of this I'm compelled to reach out to others. Our beautiful and perfect Savior just LOVES it when His kids all get along and support one another!
Are you looking for a friend as well?
One that will accept you for all your imperfections and shortcomings?
One who gets you?
One who doesn't compete with you?
One who encourages you when you're down?
One who rejoices in your blessings?
A friend who will still love you when you cry that ugly cry or laugh like a snorting pig?
7 Ways to Become a Friend
- Pray to be the type of friend that Jesus would like you to be.
- Pray for the type of friend that Jesus would like you to have.
- Join a Bible study or serve at your church so you can meet other like-minded women.
- Don't be afraid to extend your heart to another.
- Invite them into your world. Make it simple at first and go to a park with the kids if you have little ones around.
- Meet for a cup of coffee.
- Offer to help them.
Sometimes it's scary to reach out to others because, well, you just might get rejected. I know the feelings so know that you're not alone! However, the blessings of having a sister in the Lord that will support you, encourage you, and accept you as you go through this downright, difficult life truly does outweigh the pains of being rejected.
And in case you didn't know or notice, I've created a Forum of Friends right here on this site! I know online friendships don't compare to friends in real life that you can hug and hangout with, but nonetheless, I hope this forum will encourage you to grow in Christ in all aspects of your relationships.
Live a poured out life for Christ,
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I wrote about the same thing this week! It's hard to reach out when you don't know how the other person will respond. But it is worth it. And Jesus wants us to live in community and love one another. Great post!
ReplyDeleteHi Christina,
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to reach out, but it's what Jesus would do! Thanks for your sweet comment.