Tips For Triumphant Living -- Make Time For Friends

Every Wednesday evening I meet with a group of women for Bible Study. I love our time together. We pray, cheer each other on, share hopes and sorrows and just plain love each other. Oh yeah, and we study the Bible. That's always a good thing to do with friends.

Throughout the years, I've been part of many different groups. I love what happens in small groups. There's always a transformation. When we first meet we're not sure of one another and we wonder what's okay to say and what's not. The next time we get together we're a little more comfortable. Bit by bit, we learn to trust and we grow more confident. Finally bonds form and friendships develop and deepen. Some last a lifetime.

We all come from different backgrounds and bring our own unique personalities and perspectives and yet we can still be comrades. Relationships offer emotional and spiritual health. God tells us we need each other. He designed us to be social beings. Proverbs 17:17 says, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." When adversity hits it's always helpful to have a brother who loves us and can share the burden.

Today, scientific studies tell us that God has it right. People who spend time with people they love live longer healthier lives.

As we move through this world challenges undoubtedly will confront us. When those times come having a friend to stand with us makes the standing more bearable. And do you remember the last time you received joyful news? What did you want to do first? Yes--tell someone! Good news is so much better when we can share it.

I encourage you to open the doors of your life and make time for friends. Our days will be richer.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie