Live Different, Not Distant: Part II

“Connection is the energy that is created between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued– when they can give and receive without judgement.” -Brené Brown

Welcome to part two of my mini series!

Today’s post is a follow-up to Part 1 where I wrote about how God calls Christians to live differently than the world in our relationships, work, and what we value. When we encounter Jesus, we can choose to be forever changed or remain the same.

I chose to be forever changed, and I haven’t looked back since.

Not Distant

When it comes to the fight or flight mode of tough conversations, I am most likely going to fly. However, as I am growing closer to God I feel more empowered to “fight” for those conversations because I know I’m in good company. In God’s Word He says, “have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Be Brave to Have the Tough Conversations

I feel so much love when my friends and I come together to have honest, accountable, and genuine conversations. I really appreciate the friends that give me patience and kindness when I need advice, forgiveness, or just to vent. It takes vulnerability and bravery to speak up sometimes, but it’s definitely less scary when I know the people I’m talking to are open to what I have to say. In return, I hope to be that friend that can be patient and kind in those situations too (because I know that is something I need to work on). 

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” -Colossians 3:12-14

Seek Variety in Community

I love my friend group, but I’ve noticed that I need to challenge myself to seek out friendships with people who have different backgrounds and life experiences than I do. A varied community allows me to learn new things, gain an understanding of different perspectives, and challenges me to share my beliefs too. God describes His people as the body of Christ. We all have different roles and when we come together we can accomplish great things! Plus it gets kinda boring without the spices of originality in community too.

 

Make Time for Quality Time

Quality time helps bridge the distance between friends whether you’ve seen that person yesterday or a year ago. I want to encourage you to put away the social media/ cell phones and do an activity with a friend you haven’t spent time with lately. I love going on walk & talks, Chilis dates, or just grab coffee with friends to catch up on life. I also love having game nights with friends too. It’s so easy and fun! I want my friends to feel rested when they come to my home and loved when they leave. This also applies to my relationship with God. I need quality time with Him in order to grow spiritually too.

Have Courage to Share the Gospel

This is an area of growth that I am focusing on this semester. Sometimes I feel unqualified or not knowledgeable enough to share the Gospel, but I know that’s not true and God has made me qualified by His grace in my life. If you know Jesus then you have a story to share. That’s where I start. If I’m at a loss of words, I just say how God loves me and the person I am talking to. I think sharing the Gospel should be a conversation and approached as an opportunity to learn from each other. Christians are not meant to stay in the church with other Christians, we are also called to go out and make connections with people and share who Jesus is with people too. What are ways you share the Gospel?

I also want to encourage you to take time to rest too. I think it’s amazing to have a heart for serving the Lord and desire to grow closer to your friends. But it’s also necessary to take time for yourself! There’s a difference in distancing yourself from God and friends and taking time to rest alone.

I hope you enjoyed this mini series! Comment below your thoughts on the series, or how you share the Gospel too!

Petit à Petit,

Lauren

PS you can follow THP on Instagram @thehonestpursuit for daily posts and inspiration. I really appreciate the support and feedback! 🙂