October 4, 2024

Romans 1.12 (NIV)

. . . that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.

Nothing surpasses the joy of a spiritual friendship . . . little compares with spiritual friends.*

I facilitate a weekly small group Bible study for women. There is something about the dynamics of the group that allows women to feel safe and comfortable – so much so, that many have “spilled their guts” the very first time they joined us. At first, while I was thrilled that we were able to provide such a ministry to hurting women, I held myself aloof because I didn’t feel any need to unload – I preferred to take my burdens to the Lord. Many years before, I had gone through a period of testing in which the Lord taught me that he was all I needed. For whatever reason, he withheld the blessing of friendships from me until in my heart I no longer needed them.

But God is never finished with us! After teaching me that I didn’t “need” other people, God began to reveal to me that others needed for me to need them! Even though some women were willing to share their personal concerns with the group, there were others who weren’t so comfortable until after I became transparent with them. When they saw that their leader wasn’t afraid to share her concerns, they began to feel safe in opening up as well. And now we are mutually encouraged by each other’s faith!

If God is sending hurting people to you, maybe it’s because you have been where they are – and they need to know how God led you through your struggles. Let your experience be your testimony.

When we combine the counsel of trusted friends with our own reading of Scripture and connection to a church community, we are refusing insular thinking, accepting correction, and opening ourselves to growth.*