What Do Your Closest Friends Know About You?
Recently, I called a friend on a sad day. Usually, I am the one giving care to another, but in this situation, I felt I needed a friend besides my wife who was safe, wise, and understanding of my stage of life.
Why was my day sad? I was spending that day with my 97-year-old mother at the nursing home where she was living. These days, her life has been very difficult due to how independent she was before her stroke. But this day was especially sad because my sister, who has been fighting a valiant fight against cancer, had been hospitalized once again due to complications. Those of you who have been there know. It’s very difficult and fraught with pain.
However, I felt compelled to share my sadness with a friend who understood, and he was there for me as I knew he would be. He listened, prayed for me, and I braced myself for the day, receiving fresh strength from the Holy Spirit and my friend’s care.
So, I have a question for you.
What do your closest friends know about you? If you are married, do you let your spouse into your inner world, sharing your joys and deep challenges? If you are single, who is your first call when you celebrate a victory or experience a life challenge?
Why is this important?
First, because God did not mean for us to live life independently, he meant for us to be there for one another and to allow Him to be the bond that holds us together. Please take a moment and read Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, meditating on its words. This will underline this first thought well.
Second, God created your mind so that you can share your story with others and for them to share their stories with you. Something special happens inside us when we communicate on that level with an empathetic listener. Healing occurs as care is extended from one to the other in Christ’s love.
Sadly, we do not think we need this level of love when we are young. We think we’re good on our own. This thinking then becomes habitual, and we carry it into later years. Then, not being able to break through, relationships struggle and, if married, marriages crumble.
However, that does not need to be your future. If you find you have been hiding your inner world in the shadows, it is time to come out. It will not be easy. It will require a courageous humility. James 4:10 puts it this way:
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.”
Humble yourself, set up a time to talk with that safe and wise person who understands your stage of life, and talk. And remember, God is the third cord in every healthy Christian relationship, binding you together in Christian love.
Additionally, I encourage you to share your life and story with your small group. My wife and I have been in small groups for decades. These groups have made a significant difference in our lives. Having that place where you regularly share your highs and lows makes the door easier to open when a life-changing event comes your way.
Please, please do not let your life blow up because you thought you were alone when God has had people there for you all along.