I’ve struggled with friendships all of my life. I think part of the reason is due to us moving around as a child and having to start friendships over at each new school. I tried to keep connected to friends through letters but it didn’t always last. When I began working at the church, friendships became even more difficult 1) because when you work at a church some people are afraid to be themselves for fear of judgement and 2) I started to struggle within myself about who I am and who I am called to be.

In my journey over the past few years, I have been envious of people who had the time for quality friendships. When I stopped working for the church, I realized I have no more excuses to nurture those friendships that are important to me. I have more clearly seen which friendships were strong and true vs. those where were only my friend out of proximity.

It is hard to keep faithful friendships. I’ve had to grieve friendships which I thought were lasting and also ones where I saw people in a new light; which causes me to lose trust. Overall, what I have learned through these experiences about friendship is that the only friend constant friend I have ever had in my life is Jesus.

Jesus never leaves me.

Jesus never forsakes me.

Jesus never abandons me.

Jesus never lets go.

Lord, I pray I will remain faithful to you no matter what comes next in my life and that I will praise your name forever! Thank you for being a friend!