Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Tribute to Friends

I have been blessed with friends in my life. Not acquaintances, but friends. Not shallow relationships, but meaningful friendships. In high school during my transitional Jr. year, when I truly committed my life to Christ, I gave up several friendships. I believe that God has been blessed me for that sacrifice ever since.

I have friends who will pray for me, not just with me. I can call Lonna and Samantha when I don't have the words to express my heart to God. When I need advice regarding a ministry issue, I can go to Angel H. and Ischee. When I need to vent or just need someone to talk to, I have my best friend since 6th grade, Angel M. These are people, like Kelly, who saw me in some of the lowest points of my life, and still loved me! These women are trust worthy, and that is a gift in and of itself.

When I need people to sharpen me, and keep me accountable, I have my two wonderful sisters, aunts, and of course my madre. They know the deepest part of me, and accept me regardless. Being transparent in ministry isn't always welcomed, so it is with these people, that I can "air out all my dirty laundry".

There are other friendships that I have had in the past that have help formulate who I am today. Dave, Rubin, Will, Jen, Adam, and Sybil were my support system the last two years of high school and into college as well. Although the regularity of our time together is scarce, I know I love these individuals, and I know they feel the same way.

My tribute to friends is actually a testimony to the faithfulness of God. He has provided me specific people for specific times in my life. He knows exactly who I need, and when I need them. All of these people have been the iron that Proverbs 17 speaks about; they have all sharpened my life.

5 comments:

Samantha said...

And we send a tribute back to you! You have been faithful to all of these people, I'm sure, and God has truly blessed me because you are in my life!

Hooray for God's faithfulness and friendships.

Kelly Weinberg said...

I don't think I would have made it through college without you in my life!! I am so thankful for you Bethany!! I'll never forget all of the "Travis drama" I went through and how you were always there for me! You are loyal and trustworthy friend and I'm so blessed to still have your friendship in my life after all of these years. Love you!

Angel said...

I'm very grateful for you as well! Thanks for being such a loyal friend!

sharonie said...

Yes you do air your dirty laundry and sometimes it is set to a long hot cycle. Just kidding...I don't mind a bit...I love hearing you talk and vent...you do the same for me! Transparency with no judgment.

Judith and Lance said...

You certainly have a lot to be thankful for, it's awesome that you realize just how blessed you are in the friend department. Your a neat lady, Bethany Scottberg