Strategic Relationships

Jeremy and I are people-people. We like people.. we smile, we laugh, we hug, we greet.. we like people. He likes everybody.. me on the other hand, I have to pray first because I like old friends, comfortable relationships and have gotten to the point where I do not want new friends because they're all over the place.. and not where we are! BUT! Since relocating and having to recreate new friendships, I've noticed that these relationships (whether I try to avoid them or not) are strategic.

For example (I like examples)- when we first got to Durham, I was so lonely!! My sisters (from another mother) called me every day to make sure I was ok. From that, our relationship became more of a support system and they were nurturing throughout the beginning of our D-town journey. (I love you ladies.. so much!)

Then, I got a job (within 20 days--when God shows up, He shows OUT!). At my job, I met a few co-workers, but one became a big brother, who was not only married to one of the best women I have ever met, but introduced us to their church, children and loved on Miss Jocey! They helped make our transition smooth at the job, finding a church, securing a babysitter and provided support and advice for our future and our faith walk. Now, this relationship was not by accident, it was strategic because, once we found more babysitters, doctors, a church, God has uprooted their family to a better opportunity.. Congrats, Gooden’s!

And finally, our Divinity School Family.. Now, this one relationship is definitely.. interesting.

There's a guy in Jeremy's program..let's call him Jeremy 2. Jeremy 2 plays an instrument, preached his first sermon in 2004 and has a wife, who's having a baby, June 30! Still don't get it? Jeremy (G), plays an instrument, preached his first sermon in 2004, has a wife who had a baby, June 29! The similarities in this relationship continue and are not only interesting..but designed by God.

And then there are the Divinity Spouses.. this group of ladies have become a backbone for me, not many of my friends are Pastor's wives in training.. so this common bond has fostered growth, support, studies and awesome learning opportunities. The fact that we're all going through the exact same thing, at the exact time, is not by accident but by God's divine coordination.

While meeting people has been important to me, understanding each relationship has become even more important. I realized, I don't want surface friends. I want relationships that help foster maturity, spiritual growth, laughter and support.

For you, if possible, take the time to evaluate your relationships, rather they be friends, boyfriends/girlfriends; husbands/wives.. if these relationships are not ordained by God, seek help to change that. Having toxic relationships is not helpful to you, your family and most important, the body of Christ.

Relational,
~Mrs. G