"Doing Life" Together

It is true that as one goes through life, one finds that certain events and trials bring life to subjects once barely on the radar screen. Graduating from high school - that often brings a whole new world of work and bills, an entire life change. Before graduation, these things may be only imagined, but afterwards, these things become real.

At times, these things we glimpse in the distance may be difficult things: abuse, addiction, death, illness... We know that these things happen, but they don't really touch us. Then, something happens in our lives, bringing into reality things previously in the distance. A family member dies, we are diagnosed with cancer, addiction becomes obvious.

Many times, this world calls us to "buck up" - to "pull ourselves up by our bootstraps" and handle the tough times. But the truth is that almost everyone is changed by the difficulties he or she experiences. The question is, do we allow these things to change us for the better or for the worse?

Romans Chapter 5, verses 3 through 5 says,

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."

Suffering, trials, difficulties - these can truly show themselves in positive ways. One major way is by sharing our journeys through these difficult times with others.

Today, I had the blessed opportunity to learn about the life of a wonderful new friend. We haven't known each other long, but there are some things that, well, speed up a relationship, making it easier to get past that top layer or two of reserve. We talked together about our histories and 'compared notes' about certain situations. The situations, feelings, and events were not exactly pleasant - at times, they were downright difficult - yet we were able to openly discuss these core issues with each other.

What a difference that makes!! As a matter of fact, the Bible has something to say about this as well:

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity." Proverbs 17:17

That almost says it all! A friend is not to be just for times of joy or pleasant company, but for the difficult times, the times "of adversity," too.

At a difficult time in the life of our marriage, a couple we knew stepped forward and offered counseling and conversation. This became known to us as "doing life together." We didn't just spend time acting like things were all right and they didn't keep us at arms length. They delved into life right next to us - the good, the bad, and the really, really ugly.

So, the challenge to you today is this: can you be a true friend, a brother or sister to someone beyond the niceties of "hey, how are you?" Can you "love at all times" and be there during times of adversity? Or, can you trust someone in your circle of friends or acquaintances enough to get to know them better for their sake and for your sake?

Give it a try! The Lord meant for friendship to be more than that which is on the surface. Go deeper and see what you find. The rewards are rich!

Go and DO with Christ!

Jess

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