God's Gift of Relationships

"As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 27:17

In the darkness of the night I could hear her small voice call out beside me. "Please put your arm on me so I know you won't leave me."

This was mine and Sonya's conversation every night when we were little girls. You see, growing up we shared not only a room but a full sized bed with one another until we were blessed with a set of beautiful twin beds years later.

I don't know when this fear of Sonya's began (or where she thought I might go) but it comforted her to know I was right there close beside her. Before falling off to sleep she would take my arm and hold it up in front of her face and talk to it like it was her baby doll (I think some nights even scolding it). I can't really remember her exact words but just that little act was enough to take her mind off of the fear of the darkness that enveloped us (or me escaping). Before long we would both be off to dreamland (for in some small way it comforted me as well, if I were being honest).

Iron rubbed against iron shapes and sharpens it. I believe our relationships we have with our family and friends molds us into the people we become. I am extremely thankful for the family my heavenly Father chose for me. The years my sisters and I grew up together under the same roof were a treasure from God. We may not have always gotten along or appreciated our togetherness but now looking back I realize how we shaped and sharpened each other into who God wanted us to be (and by no means am I saying we are perfect).

If you are a member of a close-knit, supportive family, offer a word of thanks to your Creator. And if you have a close circle of trustworthy friends, consider yourself richly blessed. Take time to praise God for your family and friends. God has placed these people along your path so love them and care for them. These people are a gift from God; we should treat them as such.

I love you & He loves you more!

Lord, I praise Your name for my parents, sisters and the many friends that have helped me along the way become the person I am today. They have added so much to my life and I pray I have them also. Help me to always remember the treasure family and friends are and never take them for granted. In Jesus' name. Amen.