The Joy of Friendship
My congregation has often heard me make this statement: When life is over, only three things really matter; Faith, Family, and Friends. Through this website you have been exposed to my faith and my family. Recently I have been reminded of the rewards of developing great friendships along the journey of life. I consider myself blessed to have so many special friends. Earlier this week, George & Bill, friends from my hospital days in Florida, contacted me and plan to come visit me in a few weeks. Both men have been great friends over the years, and have been faithful to encourage me during my illness.
Last night I received a very special note from Rick Warren at Saddleback Church. I was honored that he cared enough about me to send a personal note and many nuggets of encouragement. He has encouraged many of us through his powerful book, The Purpose Driven Life. It is a MUST READ for all Christians, and is a great outreach tool for non-Christians. If you haven't read the book, GET IT TODAY!! It will change your life!
Today I heard from Andy. Andy and I attended XRay school together in 1974 in Ft. Lauderdale, then became roommates, and eventually we were Best Men at one another's weddings. Andy and Greg, another college classmate, are coming in late August from Florida to visit with me on the weekend.
This morning, Dr. James Bearden, my district superintendent, paid me a surprise drop-in visit, driving in from Columbia to encourage me. We enjoyed a time of fellowship, then before leaving, he prayed for me. That's what friends are for!!
Literally hundreds of my friends and former church members have called, sent cards & emails, and stopped for a visit. I am blessed with friendship. I have enjoyed a great life! I love God FIRST & FOREMOST! I love my wonderful FAMILY! And I love my wonderful friends! Life is good!
Are you taking the time to develop close friendships? Don't stay so busy chasing after things that won't matter in eternity at the expense of Faith, Family, and Friends. After all, when life is over.....when everything is said & done...only those three things will matter. Make some friends. It's worth the investment!
I have had a good day. I was able to work for a few hours at the church this morning. I will rest this afternoon and I am looking forward to a blessed weekend. Thanks for praying. I love you!
Last night I received a very special note from Rick Warren at Saddleback Church. I was honored that he cared enough about me to send a personal note and many nuggets of encouragement. He has encouraged many of us through his powerful book, The Purpose Driven Life. It is a MUST READ for all Christians, and is a great outreach tool for non-Christians. If you haven't read the book, GET IT TODAY!! It will change your life!
Today I heard from Andy. Andy and I attended XRay school together in 1974 in Ft. Lauderdale, then became roommates, and eventually we were Best Men at one another's weddings. Andy and Greg, another college classmate, are coming in late August from Florida to visit with me on the weekend.
This morning, Dr. James Bearden, my district superintendent, paid me a surprise drop-in visit, driving in from Columbia to encourage me. We enjoyed a time of fellowship, then before leaving, he prayed for me. That's what friends are for!!
Literally hundreds of my friends and former church members have called, sent cards & emails, and stopped for a visit. I am blessed with friendship. I have enjoyed a great life! I love God FIRST & FOREMOST! I love my wonderful FAMILY! And I love my wonderful friends! Life is good!
Are you taking the time to develop close friendships? Don't stay so busy chasing after things that won't matter in eternity at the expense of Faith, Family, and Friends. After all, when life is over.....when everything is said & done...only those three things will matter. Make some friends. It's worth the investment!
I have had a good day. I was able to work for a few hours at the church this morning. I will rest this afternoon and I am looking forward to a blessed weekend. Thanks for praying. I love you!
David said it all: I saw God before me for all time. Nothing can shake me; He's right by my side. I'm glad from the inside out, ecstatic; I've pitched my tent in the Land of Hope. I know You'll never dump me in Hades; I'll never even smell the stench of death. You've got my feet on the life-path, with Your face shining sun-joy all around.

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