My Friend “A”

There is a very special person that God brought into my life a few years ago.  In this post I’m calling her “A” for privacy purposes. It has just been totally on my heart to share what an inspiring person she is and what God is doing through her.

When I first met A at church, I immediately sensed that she would be a wonderful friend.  Soon after that we met for dinner and we simply didn’t stop talking. The little stinker secretly paid for my meal and we’ve been battling it out ever since! Ha!

Over the last two years our friendship has grown through both good times and tough times.

A and I were pregnant at the same time — which was SO much fun!

I’ve watched A change into that “new creature” that is spoken of in 2 Corinthians 5:17.  It’s been an amazing transformation of her heart.  My heart has been changed just by watching God change hers.

We’ve struggled together in passionately pursuing “better” things – better wifehood, better motherhood, greater love for God. We’ve chatted, texted, emailed, cried, laughed, prayed, shopped and she’s even cleaned my house! Ha!

In the the darkest hour of the last year when A’s husband was incarcerated, I was there.  I listened, cried, prayed and tried to encourage.  What do you say in that situation?  Usually nothing.  Just being there means everything.

When A lost her job because of the poor economy, I listened, encouraged and trusted that it was going to be okay. She trusted God and He has provided. A’s been home with her babes – where she’s been needed the most.

Over the last months, my heart has rejoiced many times as I’ve seen A’s faith grow by leaps and bounds.  Because of her faith, my faith has grown.  We’ve watched God work miracles…things that just don’t happen have happened.  Things that unmistakably have God’s handwriting on them.

A has stood by her man in the most remarkable way.  Their relationship has deepened and flourished because they are both pursuing God and His way.  The last eleven months have been harder for A than I can even imagine, but prayers have been answered, needs have been provided, and faith has grown.

My friend A is a pretty special person.  Besides my sister,  A is my yard sale/thrift store shopping buddy.  We talk about anything and everything. She encourages my heart in epic proportions.

Someday when we’re ninety years old, walking with canes and sitting in our front porch rocking chairs, I trust that we will still be laughing, crying, praying and watching God work.

Do you have a special friend who inspires you?

Linked to:

• Things I Love Thursday