The Plumbline

Do you have anyone in your life that really 'believes' in you? There are all kinds of people in our lives, but those that really believe in us are a blessing way beyond what we might imagine. When we have others who believe in us, they encourage us, give us direction, help us avoid harmful things, and even learn new things. I don't know about you, but I need encouraging people in my life because life is filled with all kinds of people and things that have the primary aim of discouraging me. We all need direction from time to time because we don't always know which way to go on our own. We also don't see the stuff that can bring us harm when we are too doggone close to it, but when another is there to help us see it they can keep us from going any closer. We want a group of people in our lives that believe in us - nothing will help us grow as much as being surrounded by people we admire, respect, and trust. Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fool...

When we really determine to walk the pathway of a disciple, it will cost us. The pathway is not always traveled by as many of those we call "friends" as we'd like to think. Yet, when we find someone to travel with us in this journey of faith, what a blessing it is! We need each other to understand and fulfill God's calling on our lives. We each compliment the other, challenging and uplifting, learning together what is contained deep in the Word of God. Keep me safe, O God, I've run for dear life to you. I say to God, "Be my Lord!" Without you, nothing makes sense. And these God-chosen lives all around—what splendid friends they make! (Psalm 16:1-3) David's words ring true in the hearts of many who engage in this walk of discipleship with Christ - without you, God, absolutely nothing makes sense at all. We can attempt to make sense out of tragedy, loss, or even a success all on our own. Without God, and those he places in our lives as fellow traveler...

I saw a cute little poster the other day. One person sat with their arm around the other, backs facing outward toward the camera, heads slightly tilted toward the other person's shoulder. The caption was what spoke to me: " I'm not interested in whether you stood with the great. I'm interested in whether you sat with the broken. " I think the idea expressed is simply profound - although it is not "Bible", the concept is straight out of the teachings of  Jesus! PERPETUALLY my focus takes me to the Eternal because He will set me free from the traps laid for me. QUIETLY turn Your eyes to me and be compassionate toward me because I am lonely and persecuted.  (Psalm 24:15-16 VOICE) We don't have to possess all the answers in order to be a help to another.  We simply need to make the time, paying attention to their expressed need, as well as those things they just don't say, but are deeply feeling.  Often loneliness is not ever spoken,...

I have had only a few relationships in life where I would hold nothing back - sharing from my heart, opening up freely, knowing those individuals would not pick me apart because of some of the things I struggle with.  It is a rare find to find one so trustworthy.  You know, I didn't start out with these kind of friends, though.  It took a long time to find these most trusted individuals!  Yet, in the places where I had no one in the "natural" sense to open up to, I always had God.  I think this is where I first learned the value of having someone I could open up to!  Trusting him first with my life's secrets and struggles was the secret to me finding those whom he placed in my path who would become some of my greatest allies, toughest "critics", and most loving companions in this journey. Open up before  God , keep nothing back;  he’ll do whatever needs to be done:   He’ll validate your life in the clear light of day  and stamp you wit...

I'm a friend and companion of all who fear you,  of those committed to living by your rules.   Your love,  God , fills the earth!   Train me to live by your counsel. (Psalm 119:63-64 The Message) It is good to have friends.  As we begin today, just take a moment to make a list of friends.  Now, divide that list into those who you could say were more than just your acquaintances - the list probably got a little shorter.  To further refine this list, let's divide out those who we really know have our back - they are more of a confidante to us, they are a compatriot in our mission in life.  The list probably got downright tiny with that one!  We can have lots of friends, but few will go the extra mile of walking with us through our mission in life - partnering with us in our walk with Christ. David says he was a friend and companion of ALL who feared God.  Then he broke that down a little further - of th...