WHO IS YOUR BESTIE?

Listen to your kids as you drive them to school!

Yesterday, on our way to school, Olive asked me, "Daddy, who is your bestie?" Without hesitation, I answered Mommy! (Hoping that gets me some points) Olive responded, "Mommy doesn't count; besides family, who is your bestie?"

I dropped Olive off at school, and on the drive back home, I thanked God for our conversation and for the close friends he placed near me to encourage, support, cheer on, and live life seeking Jesus with.

According to a July 2023 article by Barna Research:

Pastors' sense of feeling supported by those around them is wavering. Pastors are no strangers to feelings of loneliness and isolation. In fact, Barna's historical data show that these feelings have increased significantly since 2015 when 42% of pastors shared they either frequently (14%) or sometimes (28%) felt this way. Now, 65% of pastors report feelings of loneliness and isolation, with 18% admitting these feelings occur frequently.

Pastors and ministry leaders need friends. We need healthy relationships. We need besties! Healthy relationships/best friends are significant for our overall well-being. These healthy relationships allow us to feel support, Love, and companionship. I can attest to the power of having a solid group of healthy relationships. This group is made up of family members, church members, and other pastors/ministry leaders. This group has been there for my family and me during some of life's heaviest moments to offer a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and wise advice. They have also filled my life with joy and celebration, cheering me on during successes and victories. Without healthy relationships, we may feel alone and even lost.

The Bible speaks to the importance of friendship and healthy relationships.

Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

This familiar Bible verse highlights the idea that friends can help us become the best versions of ourselves and inspires us to be the friends who challenge and support others.

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of Love and forgiveness, strengthening healthy relationships. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Paul writes,

Love is patient, Love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

These verses remind us that healthy relationships are built on Love, kindness, and forgiveness. Having healthy relationships/best friends is essential for our everyday well-being. Healthy relationships shape us and help us grow. Healthy relationships give us the opportunity to shape others and help them grow!

So, who are your besties?
Cherish your friendships and nurture healthy relationships, for they are indeed a gift from God.