Simple Secrets #2

If you show yourself friendly, you'll find a friend

There are times when life seems to be more than we can handle. The stresses of life, like a well trained ninja, are always poised to strike. Without the right safeguards we can fall prey to anxiety and depression.

Our latest session was a continuation of Simple Secrets of Happy People. The young pastor went over 3 points:

1. Happy people cultivate friendships
2. Happy people share of themselves
3. Make your work your calling

The importance of friendships is what stuck out to me this week. Of all the things we chase on this planet, relationships maybe the most undervalued.  Sure I have hundreds of "friends"on Facebook and thousands of "followers" on Twitter (and possibly millions of readers) - but how many true relationships do I have? Serious relationships? Grounded relationships.

Cultivating a true friendship is not always easy nor is it a 1-way street. Relationships that matter will hit rough patches. You'll be challenged. You'll be tired. You'll be stretched. The great thing about being a believer in Christ is knowing that it's not always about you. Maybe it's your friend that needs a shoulder to cry on or a word of encouragement. Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up. The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray. Prov 12:25-26

I have some close friendships that truly bring me joy. Yes, there is give and take. Sure, we don't always see eye-to-eye....but I know who to call when I feel the world on my shoulders. I know who is going to do a victory dance with me. I do the same for them.

This world continues to do all it can to bring me down. I do not face problems alone; I face them with God on my side and believers next to me.