Relationships

Today was filled with relationships. It started out with a breakfast with Gill and Caleb, where we shared vision and dreams, ideas and fears. It was awesome. Plus, Gill cooked some omelets for us that were amazing. We were able to encourage and pray for each other. We discussed how too many people who love Jesus live in too many shallow relationships. You go places to be seen and ask superficial questions about each others’ lives, without taking into account who God has placed in your path and what he may want to do in and through that relationship.

Then, I was able to go have lunch with four of my small group guys at Zaxby’s. Brandon, the intern came along as well. It was a lot of fun and we got to tell some crazy stories. It was awesome to be able to connect with the guys and to see them respond to me as their leader. I hope that I will continue to pour into their lives as I lead the small group. It was good to hang out with Brandon again, I think he has tremendous potential and a real passion for missions. We talked about going to Africa and what organizations to look into. I can’t wait to see what God does in his life.

Then, after lunch, I was able to meet with Jake and ask him some questions about relationships and life. He is so amazing and encouraging. He always knows the kind of advice that I need and doesn’t mind asking tough questions. I appreciate all of the help that he has been to me through the last five months. He told me that any future relationships I pursue need to not be based on my tendency to be idealistic and romantic, but on reality and appropriateness. I put a picture in my mind of what would by amazing and then try to make it happen whether the relationship is ready for it or not. I must guard my heart and her heart from me taking the reigns of the relationship. I must wait on and be inspired by God for success in any relationship.

Next I had the chance to catch up with one of my old roommates and talk to him about relationships and work and life. It is always a pleasure to talk with him because he is so humble. He makes you feel like you are such an outstanding person, but the whole time you realize that he is amazing as well. He has a bunch of potential as well. His heart is sensitive to others’ needs and he has a penchant for serving people. I love to be around him. I hope his time in the army goes well and that he doesn’t lose sight of God’s direction for him in the middle of all the other orders.

I called Dad on the way from the old house to my apartment and asked him about what he thought about my relational readiness. He asked some tough questions about healing and moving on from the past. It was good to talk to him and have to explain it out loud instead of just letting things bounce around in my head. I may have to move home if I can’t find a job that can take care of my bills and such. This has an upside and a downside. Cheaper living, being near the family and getting a chance to relax for a little while are great things, however, I would miss the church and my friends and miss a potential relationship. I don’t really know what to do, but I know that God has my life under control. I just have to trust him and keep looking for his hand’s movements.

Home group was great tonight because we were able to be really candid. Struggles were discussed and we shared encouragement and prayer for each other. It was refreshing.

I finished the night with a friendly phone call. It was a fantastic day, all in all.