Recovering procrastinators, my husband and I have recently returned from a trip where we were able to reunite with old friends. It was like fanning coals into flame. Ever since our return, I’ve been pondering the value and importance of friendships.
“Relationship” is a trendy word these days, yet it merits attention. Though of course relationship is involved, right now I just want to focus on “friendship.” Friendship includes a bond, trust, support, camaraderie, enjoyment of each other. There are different types and levels of friendship and many essays on the topic.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 cuts to the bottom line. “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (NKJV)
We ladies know about friendships! Generally we value and nurture them. But they do take time and effort, so it’s easy to put off forming new friendships or maintaining old ones. We put family, work, or chores ahead of something our hearts long for and need. Neglect causes us to drift apart from friends and we miss out on the richness our bond and camaraderie can bring.
God designed us to need each other for support and enjoyment. Maybe you’ve heard this analogy: One coal separated from the fire burns out. But coals together keep each other burning. It’s wise to maintain life-giving friendship with another woman or women.
Over the years I have been blessed to be in small groups of believing women and in one-on-one friendships that have nurtured my faith and encouraged me when I faltered or fell. By God’s grace, I could in turn help lift up another sister. Some friendships have been for a given time period, some have lasted over 50 years. All have been woven into the fabric of my life and I am grateful.
How can you rekindle a neglected friendship or fan a coal this week? A phone call? A playdate? An email? Lunch?
Thank you Beth for investing in our friendship! Amazingly, I was just thinking about this same idea at the beginning of the week. I made a list of special ladies I want to take time to meet with throughout the years. It’s a combination of old friends, recent friends and young women whom I can pour my life into. Thank you for encouraging us to do just that! I believe the Lord just used your blog to confirm this desire of my heart.
Elena, you are so good at this! I have recently realized that in some cases I hardly spend any time with women I consider good friends. I want to deliberately make the effort to be with those women. As you inferred, all ages giving and receiving make a rich tapestry.