People need people.
Even us humans who feel like crowds cut our energies and storehouses.
Even us humans who fill back up by finding a quiet corner.
Even us humans who’ve been burned and wounded in the group-like setting.
Even us.
We were all fashioned for fellowship.
And the ones who brave the reach and dive in, they usually end up learning something useful and needed, somehow.
Sure, there are different doses for different types. Some of us need constant company and others of us need it sporadic. True.
But on the whole humans need other hearts to kindle with.
Just yesterday, my women’s pastor grabbed me at the end of service, looked straight into my misty eyes, and tore truth open. She zeroed in deep, and encouraged, and uplifted my spirit with the words she spoke. She set me right straight and got me sailing again.
Women need other women to speak life and light over their souls.
And then again, just last night we shared a Mexican meal with a special community group we’ve known for years. After downing enchiladas we all cracked books, shared hearts, answered questions, and petitioned in prayer. The sweet side conversations I had as we filed to the door – they filled me, too.
Folks need family whether it’s blood or not.
When we gather in groups, or when we meet for one-on-one interaction – We hear testimony, we get wisdom, we gain understanding, we receive perspective, and we learn a lot as we walk with others.
When we speak out what’s happening in our hearts and let others into the fray – things die that need to be dead. And things are resurrected that need resuscitated.
We get called out and called up to deeper and higher.
If the thought of community makes you quiver, or it brings up unpleasant experiences, or it just doesn’t seem worth it to wade through some of the inconveniences and chaos (childcare, pushed back bedtimes, etc)… just know that somewhere along the way, in your efforts to pursue and connect with other souls – you’ll be working some things out, and pouring some things in.
The wild effort will be worth it.
It might take a few tries and trials to find true fellowship – but keep foraging.
Be careful about who you congregate with. Be wise and discerning about who you allow into your tight circle. Go ahead and be real cautious… but do go ahead.
Do take courage to connect. Mines been a heart and home that’s been changed by the inpouring of others. No doubt, yours will too.
I need to hustle now – to lay out lessons and learning books. We have to head into school things earlier than normal today…because I’m scheduled to meet a fine lady-friend for lunch.
I’ll be filled by the connection and, I pray, so will she.
Why is it that you are constantly posting just what I need to hear? God perhaps 🙂 I am really struggling with this very thing right now. I try to connect and just end up getting burned time and time again. I am clinging to God that He will send that person just right for friendship and to encourage me while I also encourage her.
Friends are so important! They aren’t ever perfect, but they can be such gifts. I just prayed that you would find a sweet circle of encouraging friends! Thanks so much for reading! – Kate 🙂