“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. 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.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Friends

Being with our friends reminded me of what our real “treasures” are in life—it’s people! The world makes us think that our treasures are land, houses, cars, money, art, jewels—but all those things fade away. The greatest gift we have is the gift of people. Our greatest wealth is not measured in terms of riches but relationships.

I’ve always known that, believed that, and lived that way, but this long unexpected journey has taught me this truth again. I couldn’t have made it without all the dear people around me—and all of you dear ones praying all over the world.

I read a story about some fir trees in Washington state. A strong windstorm hit the area, and many of the trees that were standing by themselves were blown over. But the ones that grew tightly together in the midst of the forest didn’t fall. They were strengthened by their intertwining roots. When we link hearts and stand together, the storms of life can’t blow us over!

Years ago, when I was quite young, I wrote this in my journal:

A friend –

– strengthens the heart

– repairs the hurt

– encourages the discovery

– enlightens the mind

– dissolves the pain

– banishes the loneliness

– understands the anxiety

– increases the joy

– deepens the spirit

– frees the soul

That’s a pretty big order! But I’m so grateful for the friends we’ve had in our lives who have done all those things, and more, for us. God wants our lives to be interwoven together. He strengthens us in that way.

“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Proverbs 17:17

Thank you, each one, for your friendship in prayer!

“Thank You, Father, for providing us with friends in this life. And especially thank You for the Friend who sticks closer than a brother—Your Son, Jesus. Amen.”