Koinonia

Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.- Hebrews 10: 23-25

There are few things as precious as friendship. Real, beautiful, joyful, messy, painful friendship. 

I sound like an old lady but it seems like these days, it’s so easy to lose sight of the importance of real friendships. I've been reflecting on this a lot lately...mostly because I recently deactivated my Facebook. I wanted to reevaluate the things I make time for. We are all connected through social media but we miss out on real-life connection. Even though I believe these tools of technology are useful in a lot of ways…like the fact I get to see what’s happening with my cousin in Germany, it doesn't compare to seeing each other face to face, giving her a huge hug and just talking with her. The connection within our hearts when we are together isn't something that can be replicated through any other source. 

God designed us for relationships. He desires us to have a loving relationship with Him and with others. We need accountability in our lives.  We need fellowship. We need each other. 

I love this quote from C.S. Lewis from his book The Four Loves.

My big sister is one of my best friends and I can't imagine life without her.  She encourages me on so many levels.  She’s always been a good role model in my life. She loves the Lord, she remains hopeful and positive during times I'd want to give up, she’s wise beyond her years and best of all…she’s available. She makes time and she can read me like an open book. She’s pretty much an exact replica of our mother. Seriously, it’s kind of creepy. What I love about our friendship is the absolute honesty between us…even when it hurts. It makes us both vulnerable but it’s necessary. Having her support helps me hold tightly to hope without wavering. 

True fellowship like this in the body of Christ has the ability to transform you.  When layers are peeled back and we share our lives with each other, accountability is welcome and healing begins in those broken places we tuck away. We are brothers and sisters in Christ and in those moments together, this is truer than ever. Make time, be available, be intentional…

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. -1 Thessalonians 5:11 

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.- James 5:16

Father, help me to use my time wisely for Your glory. Help me to be a true friend to others in the body of Christ. Build me up, shape me and mold me into a beautiful reflection of Your love.