Encouragement of the Believers

Blue sky on a glorious day
Yesterday we had the blessing of visiting with dear friends whom we have not seen in quite a while. The men gathered and had their fellowship in the living room, while we women took our hot tea outside on the patio, our sewing in hand. We did a lot of sewing and a lot of talking, and I must say my dear friend encouraged me immensely. As the warmth of our Arizona sun shined upon us, so the warmth of the love and fellowship of my dear friend warmed my heart and encouraged me.

At one point I looked up and saw a row of birds perched upon a wire. It was though they looked upon us and our sewing approvingly, and I think I said, "They are watching us enjoying ourselves." Silly, isn't it, but that part of me that has the big imagination, imagined a little children's story of a group birds singing encouragement to the sewers below them. It was a glorious day!

 We had some light-hearted laughter, and some deep philosophical talk about music as well, for you see my friend is a violinist, who plays for the opera, and her husband is a retired theory professor, but I think the greatest thing was the encouragement we got from each other. My friend has a calming presence, because she walks closely with the Lord, and she has an inner peace that radiates the love of Christ. I desire to be like that. I think that is why the love of the brethren is so important. Christian friends are there to encourage, correct, help, and strengthen us in our walk with Christ.   When one has not seen a friend in a long time, then the fellowship we have becomes dearer.   Writing email is good, but the warmth of a hug and the sight of a face cheer the heart as well.

Our conversation on the way home from this visit was lively and consoling as we rejoiced in the goodness of our God to have this time.

Is there a friend you have not seen in a long time?  Has your busyness kept you from a cherished friend?  May I suggest that you give that friend a call and see if you can spend time together?  Your life will be blessed, and the Lord will encourage you both.

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