friendship.

I think there is a beauty in all different kinds of friendships. Most recently, however, I have been struck by the encouragement I receive from one of my closest friends. We live hundreds of miles away, but still keep up with each other weekly. It's not just, "Oh! How is the weather there? And, what did you do today?" Instead, it is deep and meaningful. We pray for each other specifically through weekly emails. I think of all the friendships I've had over my twenty-two years of existence. And, I think, now that I'm older, I understand just how meaningful conversations between two friends can be. I know how God wants us to fellowship, how He wants us to conduct our lives in respect to others, how He longs for us to love others as He does. I'm truly blessed to say that I have a few close friends that I experience this with. Sure, talking about the weather and clothes and surface stuff can be fun, but the deeper a friend's conversation, the better. I mean really, how many times can you say "It's sunny here" before the conversation hit a plateau and becomes boring?!

I've also found that my love for God has grown through the encouragement and challenges I receive from another child of His. Through prayer requests answered, I see God's mighty hand at work in someone else's life. And, I am reminded of how He is working in mine when my sweet friend points it out to me. This is how friendship should work. Thank you God for such friendships!!

That's all I have today, for I'm expected to be outside sledding by one cute 6 year old brother. :) Have a happy day!