Walking Hand in Hand In Difficult Seasons

Many, if not all of us, know how to be a friend when life is great. I think what makes a friendship beautiful is learning how to walk thru the highs and lows that life throws at one another. There are friendships for every season of life, but when a friendship can withstand any storm - it makes the difficult times a little less painful and a lot more hopeful. The amazing thing about friendship is when you can’t pull yourself out of the pain, having friends to do it for you is truly amazing.

We can attest that many of our friends have gone thru dark and devastating seasons, maybe even darker seasons than you've walked thru in your own life. Just because you haven't experienced the same level of pain, doesn't disqualify you from being a friend. Some of you may feel like you're unsure of what to say or do and that's okay too. The beauty of friendship is learning how to maneuver the storms of life together. It's better to encourage from a place of friendship than to pull away from the friendship due to the fear of saying the wrong thing. I admire relationships where there is genuine effort. When I was walking thru one of the hardest seasons of loss, I can remember all of those from near and afar who loved on me effortlessly.

If you're a friend, but unsure where to start, below are five things that are easy and meaningful:

1.Reach Out

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Constant calls and/or text messages that were full of encouragement and kindness - even a text stating “Praying For You,” was more than enough to get me thru the day.

2. Gifts

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Candles and flowers are a few of my favorite things. Find something of value to your friend, sometimes something small is simple yet sentimental.

3. Open Invitations

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I'm so thankful for the friends who extended an invite to me instead of leaving me alone during my darkest season. This doesn't mean I said “yes” every time, but it was the thought that counted.

4. Books and Stationery Items

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I was once told to write out the good, the bad, and everything in between during my hardest season of life and I'm so grateful I did. Purchase a notebook for your friend to write in; she/he may not enjoy writing but maybe drawing better suits them.

5. Coffee Dates

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I'm blessed to be surrounded by a few of the strongest women who sat down and really heard my heart, pains, worries and everything in between. They invested countless hours (and still do) being by my side and walking this journey together. It doesn't necessarily have to be coffee but making room to pour into those who are in a difficult season can really set them free from the bondage that surrounds them.

Author: Cristina Cabrera a member of Legacy Church

As a church we do not believe in doing life alone. We want to pray with you.

To submit a prayer request visit

www.legacychurchri.com/prayerandpraise

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