Hello Friends,

I'll be honest, I know what I want to write about, but I am at a loss for words.  I have a friend going through some things, and my heart is just BREAKING for the family.  I won't go into details, as I am working to keep anonymity on my blog.  But this situation has me asking myself how do I encourage the family?  

While I want to show the family love and support, I don't know how.  Part of this is because they are introverts like me, how does someone who is quiet, hold a supportive conversation with another quiet person?  So, I just keep reminding them I am there, that I love and support them.   But really, what else can I do?  I can pray, but what do I pray for?  Peace?  Comfort?   I guess I have been focusing on asking God to show them what is next in their life; to let His Presence be known to them.  

But my heart still aches.  Life is so hard.  Decisions are hard.  He made a courageous one, that will be life changing.  We Christians need to them know they are not alone.  Christians need to surround others with prayer.  We need to build each other up and fellowship with them (like it says in Hebrews).    Romans 15:5 says, "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had."

That is what we do, we remember how much Jesus loves US and we show that love to OTHERS.  Many of you have probably heard of the 5 love languages that Dr. Gary Chapman writes about.  I find it hard to know what others need to feel love, because my love language to show love, and how I feel loved are different.  The five love languages are: 

1) words of affirmation

2) acts of service

3) receiving gifts

4) quality time

5) physical touch

I wish I knew what my friends love language is.  How I can best support him and his wife, but I honestly don't know (it's not usually a question that comes up in small talk).  So, I did what I do best, I went to the store and bought junk food.  (Although I prefer the term "care package" than "junk" but they are basically the same).   It's how I express to them that I care.  

How do you express love to others?  What can others do to make you feel loved?  Feel free to give me suggestions on how to support this family.  You can contact me using the contact form, just click the contact page at the top of the screen.  We Christians MUST stick together.  Life is hard, we need each other.  We must love and encourage each other.  

I'll end with part of a song that came to mind while writing this blog.  Sometimes we cling to the anchor and need the love and support of our church family to support us in the storm.

The Anchor Holds by Ray Boltz

The anchor holds
Though the ship is battered
The anchor holds
Though the sails are torn

I have fallen on my knees
As I faced the raging seas
The anchor holds
In spite of the storm

I am a follower of Christ, I am not perfect, but I love Jesus.

Until Next Time,

Liz Allen