This is something that’s really close to my heart. Having friends that build you up and that challenge you to grow, a community of people that go beyond surface level things is so important. For awhile I struggled finding the right people to dig deep with. I was finding the right people, but I just couldn’t connect in a deeper level. I recently came across the quote “transparency is sharing where you have been. Vulnerability is sharing where you are.”
This quote really spoke to me because for years I prayed that God will bring friends to my life that will walk with me, encourage me, push me to grow and hold me accountable. I prayed that for about three years and I was not connecting with anyone at all. I couldn’t help but wonder if there was something wrong with me. Specially because I move a lot, so I have always been very comfortable making friends. But I couldn’t get passed the surface level stuff. I was having a hard time truly connecting.
When I saw this quote God really opened my eyes. I have always believed that it is good to share my life experiences to help others go through similar valleys, but what I never realized is how important it is to share where you are now. Let’s be honest no one feels comfortable sharing the ugly parts of their own life, specially with someone who seems to have it all figured out. Can I trust that you won’t judge me and that you’ll love me through my valleys? I realized that by not sharing the not so pretty things I walk through I am missing my purpose. God wants us to connect, He wants us to love each other and serve each other. I can’t serve you and love you how you need to be loved if I don’t know where you are at. One of my best friends Kels said “we are all just walking each other home” I LOVE THAT! because it is true we are here to love each other. Opening up can be very scary, but the fear of rejection or judgment goes away when you realize it is not about you or the person, but it is about how your walk brings glory to God.
I just want to encourage you to open your heart to the opportunity of God using your walk to love on others. Also you don’t have to carry life on your back. There are amazing people who want to love on you and help you carry your burdens until you can give them up to Jesus and be free. You do not have to walk alone, but you have to open up your heart to others, so that they can serve you the way you need to be served.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
